Probably, everyone at least once in his life used talc for various purposes. However, is talc a mineral or rock? This stone has a number of specific properties. Due to this, it is used in cosmetology, and for the production of children's skin care products, and in industry (the production of paints and varnishes, mechanical engineering, etc.)
The chemical composition of talc
Talc is an aqueous magnesium silicate. Its chemical formula is approximately as follows: Mg3Si4O10 (OH) 2. This composition may have variations, since part of the silicon is replaced in some cases by aluminum, titanium, magnesium - by iron or manganese. It is worth noting that talc is a mineral that is almost insoluble in water, acids. The amount of impurities depends on the place of its extraction. It has long been mined in Egypt, the vicinity of China. High-quality mineral is also found in Poland, Czech Republic, France. In Russia, the main deposits are in the Urals, in the Baikal region, in the Krasnoyarsk Territory. This mineral is formed under conditions of metamorphism. The necessary conditions for the formation of talc - a temperature of about 400 ° C, a sufficient amount of water (after the transformation of minerals from rocks rich in iron and magnesium). Due to its characteristics, talc is a mineral of certain rocks. There are several types of talc.
Varieties of mineral
Depending on the structural features and the presence of certain impurities, the following types of talc are distinguished. Agalite has a parallel (or tangled) arrangement of crystal fibers. Minnesotaite is a mineral whose color is closer to brown (due to the presence of iron, which replaces magnesium). Steatitis has a dense structure. It is also called "wen". The presence of nickel is characteristic of willemsite. The color of this stone is blue or greenish. Talkochlorite has chlorite as an impurity. Noble talc is often found. This is a stone of high density, translucent (or slightly white). Such a mineral lends itself well to processing.
The main physical characteristics of the mineral
This stone has a color from translucent to brown. In powder, its color is white. Talc is the softest mineral; its hardness is one unit on the Mohs scale. The texture of the material resembles soap, it is slightly oily to the touch. Elasticity is low, although it bends easily. Talc conducts electricity poorly, heat. Mineral adsorbs water well, non-toxic. It can be sterilized at a temperature of 160 ° C (at least one hour).
Talc in medicine
Talc is widely used in the manufacture of medicines. It can be found in many capsules, tablets. However, its concentration in this case should not exceed 30%. Talc is not recommended for oral administration at elevated body temperature. Also contraindications are diseases of such internal organs as the stomach, spleen. With special caution, you need to treat preparations containing this mineral, pregnant and lactating women. Heated talc stones are used to warm certain areas of the body. Talc powder is widely used as an external agent. In this case, its concentration in the range of 90-99% is allowed. Talc is a baby powder that perfectly removes excess moisture, thus protecting baby’s delicate skin from irritation. However, it is worth considering such a moment: prolonged inhalation or ingestion of the powder of this mineral can provoke problems with the respiratory system, changes in tissues.
Features of baby powder
Since talc is a powder that contacts directly with the skin of a child, it must undergo sterilization without fail. In addition to this mineral, the composition includes starch, zinc oxide. Also, some manufacturers may use ingredients such as rice starch, cornmeal. Powders that have a pungent odor, heterogeneous structure should be avoided. The following types of cosmetics are distinguished: powder powder and liquid talc. The powder has good deodorizing and antiseptic properties. However, when used, the child can inhale some of the mineral powder. Liquid talcum powder is convenient to use, when applied to the surface of the skin it turns into a powder and absorbs excess moisture. Due to its consistency, talcum powder does not slip into lumps. However, its cost is slightly higher than that of ordinary powder. Experts recommend using talcum powder as a powder from the second month of a child's life. Do not apply it directly to the skin. It is best to first pour on a cotton pad or your own palm, and then apply it between the folds of the skin of the baby with light dusting movements.
The use of talc in cosmetology
In almost all eyeshadow you can find in the composition of such a substance as talc. This is a natural adsorbent that allows makeup to stay on the skin longer. Also, this powder is introduced into the composition of face creams. Such cosmetics help the skin remain soft, smooth, dry. Talc is able to absorb all kinds of chemicals, toxins from the surface of the epidermis. As a result, the skin receives additional protection against damage. Some studies suggest that this mineral can prevent the growth and reproduction of certain bacteria (such as typhoid fever). Talc is often used in the manufacture of dry deodorants. It is also a component of face masks. Powder is subject to certain requirements. Firstly, it must be thoroughly cleaned of impurities and microorganisms, not have a smell. Secondly, there are restrictions regarding particle sizes. In some cases, they should not be too small so as not to clog the pores of the epidermis.
Talc - what is this material for modern industry?
In addition to medicine and cosmetology, talc is used in many industries. They cover all kinds of products from rubber, plastic, rubber to prevent them from sticking together. Talc is also used in the food industry (as a filler, additive). The paper industry also uses this material. Talc-coated paper absorbs ink well. It is in demand in government agencies (for particularly important documents). In the clothing industry , chalk is often replaced with compressed talc. He makes good marks, it is easier to remove from the tissues. Due to its heat and electrical insulating properties, the mineral is used in the ceramic industry (to increase resistance to high-frequency radiation).