Talc

The softest mineral, ground into a slippery filler for plastics, paint, ceramics and paper, and now under scrutiny as a health hazard.

Industrial minerals · No. 65

• Not on a critical list
• HHI 1,021 · unconcentrated

The softest mineral stiffens car plastics, and in 2025 an EU committee recommended classing it as a presumed carcinogen.

Chart: Illustration: Talc

Where it comes from

Chart: Map of where it comes from

Talc is a hydrous magnesium silicate, formed when hot fluids alter dolomite or serpentinite. It is mined, sorted and milled to fine powder; world output was about 6.9 Mt in 2025.

Three things to know

1. In July 2025 the EU risk assessment committee recommended classifying talc as a Category 1B carcinogen.
2. US talc imports from China rose about 125% in 2025, to roughly 27% of the total.
3. Talc forms when hot fluids alter magnesium-rich rocks such as dolomite or serpentinite; plate shape and freedom from asbestos set its value.

The journey

1. 1 Ore bodyTalc or steatite from altered rocks
2. 2 MiningOpen pits and some underground mines
3. 3 SortingCrude talc sorted and crushed
4. 4 MillingGround fine, classified, sometimes floated
5. 5 End usesFillers for plastics, paint, ceramics, paper

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