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GCC (Ground Calcium Carbonate) and PCC (Precipitated Calcium Carbonate) are two types of calcium carbonate, a widely used mineral in industries.
GCC is naturally derived, cost-effective, and widely used in construction and general fillers.
PCC is synthetically made, pure, and ideal for high-performance applications in industries like pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and premium paper.
You can quickly distinguish between Ground Calcium Carbonate (GCC) and Precipitated Calcium Carbonate (PCC) using the following characteristics:
GCC
PCC
Physical Appearance
Typically appears slightly dull with a natural, irregular shape.
Can feel coarse to the touch due to its irregular particle structure.
Bright white and has a smooth, uniform particle appearance.
Fine and soft texture due to controlled synthesis.
Particle Shape
Irregular, angular particle shape that mirrors the raw material's natural structure.
Uniform and well-defined crystal shapes (e.g., rhombohedral, scalenohedral, or spherical) due to its chemical synthesis.
Fineness
Generally coarser, although it can be ground finely (up to 2500 mesh).
The fineness distribution may not be as consistent as PCC.
Ultrafine with precise size control, making it highly consistent across batches.
Purity and Whiteness
Purity depends on the quality of the natural raw material and may contain minor impurities.
Slightly less bright compared to PCC.
Higher purity and exceptional brightness due to the controlled chemical process.
Solubility Test
Dissolves faster in dilute acids (e.g., hydrochloric acid) compared to GCC due to its higher surface area.
Dissolves slower in dilute acids (e.g., hydrochloric acid) compared to PCC.
Cost
Cheaper because it involves simple mechanical grinding.
More expensive due to the chemical reaction process and precision involved.
Application-Based Check
Common in construction, plastics, rubber, and lower-grade paper coatings.
Preferred in high-performance applications such as pharmaceuticals, food, cosmetics, and high-quality papers.
Quick Test at a Glance
Texture and Appearance: Rub between your fingers. PCC feels finer and smoother.
Brightness: Compare visually—PCC is typically brighter.
Acid Reaction: Add a few drops of dilute acid—PCC dissolves faster.
These tests should help you identify the type of calcium carbonate quickly!
Shanghai Clirik Machinery Co., Ltd. is a renowned manufacturer and supplier of calcium carbonate grinding mills, offering advanced solutions for ultrafine grinding applications.
Our main grinding mills include HGM ultrafine grinding mill, CLUM ultrafine vertical mill, YGM Raymond mill, etc. They can process 50-3000 mesh fine and ultrafine calcium carbonate powder.
