Our ProductsMica Powder
Mica powder is a chemically hydrated potassium alumina silicate with a platy structure, making it ideal as an anti-blocking and anti-sticking agent. It is also used as a flux coating for welding rods and as a mold release agent. In the automotive paint industry, mica provides anti-corrosive properties and creates a two-tone metallic color effect.
Chemical Structure & Composition
Mica powder primarily consists of:
- Potassium Aluminum Silicate – KAl₂(AlSi₃O₁₀)(OH)₂
- It belongs to the phyllosilicate (sheet silicate) group of minerals.
- The platy structure is due to the silicate layers stacked with weak bonds, allowing easy cleavage into thin flakes.
Key Properties
- Platy, lamellar structure – thin, flat particles with high aspect ratio
- Chemically inert
- Thermally stable – withstands high temperatures (up to ~1000°C)
- Non-conductive – excellent electrical insulation
- UV and weather resistant
- Gloss and sheen – can impart pearlescent or metallic luster
- Low moisture absorption
- Soft and flexible
- Anti-stick / Anti-blocking behavior
Industrial Applications
| Industry | Application |
|---|---|
| Plastics | Acts as a reinforcing filler to improve dimensional stability, surface smoothness, and anti-blocking properties in PE, PP, PVC, and engineering plastics. |
| Paints & Coatings | Adds UV resistance, anti-corrosive behavior, improved adhesion, and a two-tone/metallic sheen to automotive and decorative paints. |
| Welding Electrodes | Used in flux coatings for arc stability and insulation. |
| Rubber & Elastomers | Enhances tear resistance, anti-blocking, and dimensional stability. |
| Cosmetics | Provides shimmer and smoothness in makeup products like foundations, eye shadows, and nail polish. |
| Construction | Used in joint compounds, sealants, and cementitious coatings for crack resistance and smooth application. |
| Foundry & Casting | Works as a mold release agent and thermal insulator. |
| Paper | Adds bulk and smoothness; improves ink retention. |
| Oil Drilling | As a lost-circulation material (LCM) in drilling muds. |
Functional Benefits
- Improved processing: Lowers friction in plastic and rubber molding.
- Enhanced durability: Chemically and thermally stable under harsh conditions.
- Surface effects: Provides glossy, pearlescent, or metallic finish.
- Barrier function: Adds resistance to moisture, chemicals, and gas.
- Anti-corrosion: Especially in paints and coatings for metal protection.
- Electrical insulation: Valuable in electronics and electrical insulators.
Established in 1970 with a humble factory in Tapah, Perak, starting with the kaolin mineral, our name Kaolin (Malaysia) was born.
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