Calcium stearate

Calcium stearate (CAS 1592-23-0), also known as calcium distearate, is a calcium soap of stearic acid.

Where is Calcium stearate used?

• Plastics and polymers: internal and external lubricant improving melt flow and preventing die buildup during extrusion and calendering
• Pharmaceuticals: die lubricant and anti-caking agent for consistent tablet weight and clean press release
• Construction: waterproofs cement mixes and improves workability
• Rubber processing: mold release agent
• It also serves as a dispersing aid for fillers, reducing cycle times and improving surface finish.
• In paper it acts as a lubricant that supports surface gloss and limits fold cracks and surface dusting.
• In plastic colourant concentrates it can be added for pigment wetting.
• Also used in the cable industry.

Good to know: Technical-grade product is standard for plastics, rubber, and construction applications, where purity thresholds are less stringent.

Formulation notes

• Functions as an acid scavenger in plastics at levels up to 1000 ppm.
• At a low dose it provides lubricity comparable with conventional alternatives such as sucrose fatty acid esters.

Typical specification

• Loss on drying: ≤ 3.0%.
• Particle size: ≥ 99.0% through 325 mesh.
• Calcium (Ca) content: not less than 6.4% and not more than 7.4%, calculated on the dried basis.
• Stearic acid content in the fatty acid fraction: not less than 40.0% of the total content.

Regulatory status

• Customs tariff number: 2915705090.

Storage, packaging and handling

• Store at ambient temperature in a cool, dry place away from moisture and incompatible substances.

Frequently asked questions about Calcium stearate

In which applications is calcium stearate used as an additive?

It is primarily an additive in paints and coatings, where it provides water resistance, and it is also used in the manufacture of cosmetics.

Technical content is compiled and updated by the SoleChem product team from public technical sources; the certificate of analysis (COA) governs product-specific specifications.