Paper

Talc is used in both uncoated and coated rotogravure papers where they enhance printability and reduce surface friction, improving productivity at the paper mill and print house. They also improve mattness and reduce ink scuff in offset papers. Used as pitch control agents, talc “clean” the papermaking process by absorbing any sticky resinous particles in the pulp onto their platy surfaces, thereby preventing the agglomeration and deposit of these stickies on felts and calenders. As opposed to chemical pitch-control products that pollute the process water, talc is removed together with the pulp, enabling the papermaker to operate more easily in closed-circuit. In specialty papers, such as coloured papers or labels, talc helps to improve quality and productivity.