The importance of using calcium carbonate in the paper industry appears through the many properties that distinguish calcium carbonate and lead to improving the properties of paper, as is the case at Zohdy Minerals Egypt.
Nowadays, in the papermaking process, the dosage of fillers and pigments ranks second after fibers, which come first and are the most important raw material.
Calcium carbonate fillers are commonly used in papermaking, along with talc, kaolin, bentonite, etc. The paper industry has gradually shifted from acidic processes to neutral and alkaline processes. Calcium carbonate has been modified as an important raw material for the paper industry and its usage is increasing in papermaking—an area in which Zohdy Minerals Egypt excels.
What is the Calcium Carbonate used in Zohdy Minerals Egypt?
Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3): is a white inorganic chemical substance composed of calcium, carbon and oxygen. It naturally occurs in many rocks such as limestone and chalk and it can also be produced industrially from dolomite.
Due to its properties, calcium carbonate has multiple industrial applications including white cement production, papermaking, paints, ceramics, food industry and pharmaceuticals.
At Zohdy Minerals Egypt, calcium carbonate and other fillers in papermaking contribute to hardness, bulk (loose thickness), strength, brightness, smoothness, anti-aging, yellowing resistance and brittleness resistance—all of which lead to permanent and significant improvements in paper.
Many paper companies also rely on calcium carbonate modification through processes such as crushing, coating and compounding for enhanced applications.
The powder network specialists at Zohdy Minerals Egypt have organized production technologies for paper companies using calcium carbonate and in recent years they have shared and continue to share this expertise with all paper companies engaged in calcium carbonate applications.
Benefits of Using Calcium Carbonate in Paper Quality
Calcium carbonate can be used in a wide variety of paper types such as writing paper, printing paper and packaging paper. It is the most widely used material in papermaking, representing around 30% of the total raw materials.
Key benefits include:
Improved Strength & Hardness
Enhances the durability of paper, making it more resistant to tearing and folding—vital for writing, printing and packaging papers.
Enhanced Whiteness
Calcium carbonate reflects light efficiently, resulting in brighter and more luminous paper surfaces.
Cost Reduction
It is a low-cost material, making it an economical choice in papermaking.
Environmental Protection
Its use reduces energy consumption and CO2 emissions, as paper containing calcium carbonate requires lower drying temperatures. It also improves recyclability due to reduced fiber content.
Better Printing & Processing Properties
Enhances brightness, absorption and smoothness, leading to superior printing and operational performance.
Different types of calcium carbonate used in papermaking include:
- Ground Calcium Carbonate (GCC)
- Precipitated/Light Calcium Carbonate (PCC)
- Nano Calcium Carbonate
- Coated/Modified Calcium Carbonate
- Fibrous Calcium Carbonate
- Clay Calcium Carbonate
General notes when adding calcium carbonate:
- Higher content increases brightness, gloss and smoothness but may reduce strength.
- Proper balance with fibers and other additives is essential.
- Calcium carbonate content in high-quality paper usually ranges between 10%–30% depending on type and application.
- Printing papers may contain 15–20% GCC, 10–15% PCC or 5–10% nano calcium carbonate.
- Overuse may lead to reduced strength, higher water retention and sizing issues.
Calcium Carbonate Ratio in Papermaking
Whiteness & Gloss
Improves paper brightness and gives it a shiny surface.
Opacity Increase
Provides better opacity, making it suitable for double-sided printing.
Surface Smoothness
Enhances smoothness, improving print quality.
Cost Reduction
Lowers wood pulp usage, reducing total production costs.
Applications of Calcium Carbonate in Papermaking
As a Filler
Added to the paper pulp to increase bulk and improve optical properties.
As a Coating Pigment
Improves printability by enhancing coated paper surfaces.
In Paperboard Production
Strengthens cardboard sheets, making them more durable.
In Newsprint
Improves the quality and clarity of newspaper print.
Why Buy Calcium Carbonate fromZohdy Minerals Egypt?
Unmatched Quality
Our products undergo strict quality control to guarantee the highest levels of purity and performance.
Extensive Experience
With years of expertise, we understand the exact requirements of the paper industry.
Technical Support
We provide specialized technical support to help our clients achieve the best results.
Sustainability Commitment
Our products are eco-friendly, safe and sustainable.
Reliable Supply Chain
We ensure consistent availability with a strong distribution network.
A Bright Future with Calcium Carbonate from Zohdy Minerals Egypt
The future of the paper industry depends on innovation and calcium carbonate plays a vital role in this development. At Zohdy Minerals Egypt, we provide efficient and cost-effective solutions while continuing to invest in research and development. Our commitment is to deliver the best products and support our clients’ success.
