Talc is a mineral or a rock? Child talc powder

Probably, everyone at least once in his life used talc for some or other purposes. But talc is a mineral or a rock? This stone has a number of specific properties. Due to this, it is used both in cosmetology, and for the production of children's skin care products, and in industry (the production of paints, machinery, etc.)

Chemical composition of talc

Talc is an aqueous silicate of magnesium. 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-iron or manganese. It is worth noting that talc is a mineral that almost does not dissolve in water, acids. The amount of impurities depends on the place of extraction. Long since it is mined in Egypt, the environs of China. A quality mineral is also found on the territory of Poland, the Czech Republic, and France. In Russia, the main deposits are in the Urals, in the Baikal region, Krasnoyarsk Territory. This mineral forms under metamorphism conditions. The necessary conditions for the formation of talcum - a temperature of about 400 ° C, a sufficient amount of water (after the transformation of minerals from iron-rich and magnesium-rich rocks). In view of its characteristics, talc is a mineral of certain rocks. There are several types of talc.

Mineral species

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, the color of which is closer to brown (due to the presence of iron, which is replaced by magnesium). Steatite has a dense structure. He is also called the "zhirovik". The presence of nickel is characteristic for willemsite. The color of this stone is blue or green. Talcochlorite has chlorite as impurities. Often found noble talc. This is a stone of high density, translucent (or slightly white). Such a mineral is easy to treat.

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. In texture, the material resembles soap, it is slightly greasy to the touch. Elasticity is low, although it is easily bent. Talc poorly conducts electricity, heat. Mineral adsorbs water well, is not toxic. Can be sterilized at a temperature of 160 ° C (not less than 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 to be taken internally at elevated body temperature. Also contraindications are diseases of such internal organs as stomach, spleen. With special precautions, one should treat preparations containing this mineral, pregnant and lactating women. Heated to a certain temperature, talcum stones are used to heat certain areas of the body. Talc powder is widely used as an external agent. In this case, its concentration is within the range of 90-99%. Talc is a baby powder that perfectly removes excess moisture, thus protecting the baby's tender skin from irritation. However, it is worth taking into account such a moment: prolonged inhalation or consumption of this mineral powder can provoke problems with respiratory organs, changes in tissues.

Features of powder for children

Since talc is a powder that directly contacts the skin of a child, it must necessarily be sterilized. In addition to this mineral, the composition includes starch, zinc oxide. Also, some manufacturers can use ingredients such as rice starch, cornmeal. It is necessary to avoid powders, which have a sharp odor, a heterogeneous structure. The following types of cosmetic products are distinguished: powder-powder and liquid talc. Powder has good deodorizing and antiseptic properties. However, when used, the child can inhale some of the mineral powder. Liquid talc is easy to use, when applied to the surface of the skin it turns into a powder and absorbs excess moisture. Due to its consistency, talcum does not fall into lumps. However, its cost is slightly higher than that of conventional powder. Experts recommend using talc as a powder from the second month of life. Do not put it directly on the skin. It is best to pour first on a cotton pad or your own palm, and then lightly powdered movements apply between the skin folds of the baby.

Use of talc in cosmetology

Practically in all shadows for the eyelids one can find in the composition such a substance as talcum powder. It is a natural adsorbent that allows makeup to last longer on the skin. Also this powder is added to the composition and face creams. Such cosmetics help the skin to remain soft, smooth, dry. Talc is able to absorb and all kinds of chemicals, toxins from the epidermis surface. As a result, the skin gets additional protection from damage. Some studies suggest that this mineral can prevent the growth and reproduction of certain bacteria (eg, typhoid). Very often talc is used in the production of dry deodorants. It is also a component of face masks. Powder is subject to certain requirements. First, it must be carefully cleaned of impurities and microorganisms, and not have an odor. Secondly, there are limitations on the particle size. In some cases, they should not be too small to not clog the pores of the epidermis.

Talc - what is that material for modern industry?

In addition to medicine and cosmetology, talc is used in many industries. They cover all kinds of products made of rubber, plastic, rubber, in order to prevent their clumping. Also, talc is used in the food industry (as a filler, additive). The paper industry also uses this material. Paper, covered with talc, perfectly absorbs ink. It is in demand in state structures (for especially important documents). In the garment industry , chalk is often replaced with pressed talc. He makes good grades, it is easier to remove from tissues. Due to its thermal and electrical insulating properties, the mineral is used in the ceramic industry (to increase the resistance to high-frequency emissions).