Talc
The term talc refers both to the pure mineral and a wide variety of soft, talc-containing rocks that are mined and utilized for a variety of applications. Talc forms mica-like flakes. Talc is the softest mineral on the Mohs hardness scale at 1 and can be easily cut and crushed. Talc has perfect cleavage in one direction. This means that it breaks into thin sheets. As a result, it feels greasy to the touch (which is why talc is used as a lubricant).
Type
Mineral
Mineral Classification
Silicate
Chemical Formula
Mg3Si4O10(OH)2
Streak
White, pearl black
Mohs Hardness
1
Crystal System
monoclinic, triclinic
Color
White, brown, gray, greenish
Luster
Pearly
Fracture
uneven
Description
The term talc refers both to the pure mineral and a wide variety of soft, talc-containing rocks that are mined and utilized for a variety of applications. Talc forms mica-like flakes. Talc is the softest mineral on the Mohs hardness scale at 1 and can be easily cut and crushed. Talc has perfect cleavage in one direction. This means that it breaks into thin sheets. As a result, it feels greasy to the touch (which is why talc is used as a lubricant).
Relation to Mining
Open Pit Mining:
Most talc is mined today by conventional open-pit, drill-and-blast, shovel-and-truck techniques. The major difference from conventional technology is that blasting is minimized to reduce breakage of soft talc ore.
Uses
Ground talc is used as an ingredient in ceramics, paper, paint, roofing, plastics, cosmetics, talcum and baby powders, and a variety of other assorted uses such as making rubber and plastics.
