Mica Powder, Pearlescent Powder, Sericite Powder, Natural Mica, Synthetic Mica, Metallic Pigment, Shimmer Powder, 12001-26-2
MICA POWDER - MICA PIGMENT
Natural Mica - Muscovite - Sericite
CAS: 12001-26-2
| Product Name |
Mica Powder (Mica Pigment) |
| CAS Number |
12001-26-2 |
| EC Number |
310-127-6 |
| Chemical Class |
Silicate Mineral (Phyllosilicate) |
| Synonyms |
Mica Pigment, Pearlescent Powder, Pearl Pigment, Metallic Pigment, Mica Mineral Powder, Natural Mica Powder, Sericite Powder, Shimmer Powder |
ITEM 1: PRODUCT IDENTITY AND NOMENCLATURE
| Parameter |
Description |
| Chemical Name |
Mica (Muscovite / Sericite) |
| CAS Number |
12001-26-2 |
| EC Number |
310-127-6 |
| INCI Name (Cosmetics) |
Mica |
| Chemical Formula |
KAl₂(AlSi₃O₁₀)(OH)₂ |
| Mineral Class |
Phyllosilicate (Sheet Silicate) |
| Synonyms |
Mica Pigment, Pearlescent Powder, Pearl Pigment, Metallic Pigment, Mica Mineral Powder, Natural Mica Powder, Sericite Powder, Shimmer Powder, White Mica, Muscovite |
| HS Code |
2525.20.00.00.00 |
| REACH Status |
Registered and compliant |
Description: Mica is a naturally occurring silicate mineral widely distributed in nature. Muscovite (white mica) is the most commonly used type. Mica powder is obtained from ground mica flakes and is known for its high luster, light-reflecting properties, and chemical resistance. It is widely used in cosmetics, paints, plastics, ceramics, and industrial applications.
ITEM 2: CHEMICAL STRUCTURE AND COMPOSITION
| Parameter |
Description |
| Chemical Family |
Phyllosilicate (Sheet Silicate) |
| Theoretical Formula |
KAl₂(AlSi₃O₁₀)(OH)₂ |
| Crystal System |
Monoclinic |
| Layer Structure |
2:1 Layered (TOT: Tetrahedron-Octahedron-Tetrahedron) |
| Cations |
Potassium (K), Aluminum (Al) |
| Anions |
Silicate (SiO₄), Hydroxyl (OH) |
| Mohs Hardness |
2.5 – 3.0 |
| Specific Gravity |
2.76 – 3.10 g/cm³ |
Typical Composition:
| Component |
Percentage (%) |
| SiO₂ (Silica) |
44 – 49 |
| Al₂O₃ (Alumina) |
28 – 35 |
| K₂O (Potassium Oxide) |
8 – 12 |
| Fe₂O₃ (Iron Oxide) |
0.5 – 5 |
| MgO (Magnesium Oxide) |
0.5 – 3 |
| H₂O (Chemical Water) |
4 – 5 |
| Na₂O (Sodium Oxide) |
0.5 – 1.5 |
| TiO₂ (Titanium Dioxide) |
0.5 – 1.5 |
Description: Mica is a 2:1 layered silicate mineral. One octahedral aluminum layer is sandwiched between two tetrahedral silicate layers. Potassium ions are present between the layers, responsible for mica's perfect basal cleavage property. The iron oxide content in its structure affects the color of mica; higher iron content results in darker colors.
ITEM 3: PHYSICAL APPEARANCE AND FORM
| Parameter |
Specification |
Test Method |
| Appearance |
Fine, lustrous flakes / powder |
Visual Inspection |
| Color |
White, silvery, golden, bronze, copper, pearlescent |
Visual Inspection |
| Luster |
High (pearlescent / metallic luster) |
Visual Inspection |
| Texture |
Soft, slippery feel |
Tactile |
| Odor |
Odorless |
Organoleptic |
| Form |
Powder / Flakes |
Visual Inspection |
Description: Mica powder is available as fine, lustrous, and soft flakes. Its natural color can range from white to silvery, golden, bronze, copper, and pearlescent tones. Its light-reflecting properties provide high luster and pearlescent effects. It is odorless and has a soft, slippery texture.
ITEM 4: MICA TYPES AND THEIR PROPERTIES
| Mica Type |
Properties |
Applications |
| Muscovite (White Mica) |
Transparent, light-colored, high electrical insulation, chemical resistance |
Electrical insulation, paints and coatings, plastics and rubber additives, cosmetics |
| Biotite (Black Mica) |
Black/dark brown, contains iron and magnesium, lower insulation |
Construction materials, ceramic production, geological research |
| Phlogopite (Brown Mica) |
Golden-brown, high heat resistance, flexible structure |
High-temperature insulation, furnace and resistor production, automotive industry |
| Sericite (Fine-grained Mica) |
Fine-grained, high luster, soft texture |
Cosmetics (fine powder), paints, paper coating |
| Synthetic Mica (Fluorophlogopite) |
Man-made, high purity, controlled particle size |
High-temperature applications, specialty cosmetic products |
Description: Different mica types possess different physical properties based on their chemical composition. Muscovite is the most commonly used and purest form of mica. Sericite is preferred in cosmetics due to its fine-grained structure. Synthetic mica offers high purity and controlled properties.
ITEM 5: MICA TYPES COMPARISON TABLE
| Property |
Muscovite |
Biotite |
Phlogopite |
Sericite |
Synthetic Mica |
| Color |
White / Silvery |
Black / Dark Brown |
Golden / Brown |
White / Silvery |
White / Transparent |
| Chemical Formula |
KAl₂(AlSi₃O₁₀)(OH)₂ |
K(Mg,Fe)₃(AlSi₃O₁₀)(OH)₂ |
KMg₃(AlSi₃O₁₀)(OH)₂ |
KAl₂(AlSi₃O₁₀)(OH)₂ |
KMg₃(AlSi₃O₁₀)F₂ |
| Mohs Hardness |
2.5 – 3.0 |
2.5 – 3.0 |
2.5 – 3.0 |
2.5 – 3.0 |
2.5 – 3.0 |
| Density (g/cm³) |
2.76 – 3.00 |
2.70 – 3.30 |
2.80 – 2.90 |
2.76 – 3.00 |
2.80 – 2.90 |
| Electrical Insulation |
Excellent |
Low |
Good |
Excellent |
Excellent |
| Heat Resistance (°C) |
500 – 600 |
300 – 400 |
800 – 1000 |
500 – 600 |
1000 – 1200 |
| Chemical Resistance |
High |
Medium |
High |
High |
High |
| Luster |
High |
Low |
Medium |
High |
Very High |
ITEM 6: PARTICLE SIZE AND CLASSIFICATION
| Grade |
Particle Size (Microns) |
Application |
| Ultra Fine |
< 5 µm |
Cosmetics (fine powder, eye shadow), high luster |
| Fine |
5 – 20 µm |
Cosmetics, paints, coatings, inks |
| Medium |
20 – 50 µm |
Plastics, rubber, ceramics |
| Coarse |
50 – 80 µm |
Decorative paints, special effects |
| Extra Coarse |
> 80 µm |
Ceramics, construction, special applications |
Description: Mica powder is available in different particle sizes depending on the application. Finer particles (<20 µm) are preferred in cosmetics and high-luster applications, while coarser particles (>50 µm) are used in decorative and industrial applications. Particle size directly affects light-reflecting properties and the final product's texture.
ITEM 7: PHYSICAL PROPERTIES - DETAILED
| Property |
Typical Value |
Test Method |
| Mohs Hardness |
2.5 – 3.0 |
Mohs Test |
| Density |
2.76 – 3.10 g/cm³ |
ASTM D792 |
| Specific Gravity |
2.76 – 3.10 |
ASTM D792 |
| Bulk Density |
150 – 400 kg/m³ |
ASTM D1895 |
| Melting Point |
1200 – 1400°C |
– |
| Thermal Conductivity |
0.5 – 1.0 W/m·K |
– |
| Electrical Conductivity |
Insulator |
– |
| Dielectric Strength |
30 – 50 kV/mm |
ASTM D149 |
| Surface Area (BET) |
1 – 10 m²/g |
BET |
| Oil Absorption |
40 – 70 g/100g |
ASTM D281 |
Description: Mica has low hardness (Mohs 2.5-3.0), low density, and excellent electrical insulation properties. High dielectric strength is the primary reason it is preferred in electrical and electronic applications. Low thermal conductivity provides advantages in thermal insulation applications.
ITEM 8: CHEMICAL RESISTANCE AND SOLUBILITY
| Chemical / Medium |
Resistance |
| Water |
Insoluble |
| Dilute Acids |
Resistant (except hydrofluoric acid) |
| Concentrated Acids |
Slow decomposition |
| Dilute Alkalis |
Resistant |
| Concentrated Alkalis |
Slow decomposition |
| Organic Solvents |
Resistant (insoluble) |
| Alcohols |
Resistant |
| Oils |
Resistant |
| Hydrofluoric Acid (HF) |
Decomposes (silicate structure dissolves) |
Description: Mica is insoluble in water and shows excellent resistance to most chemicals. Only hydrofluoric acid (HF) decomposes the silicate structure, causing mica degradation. This chemical resistance ensures mica remains stable in various applications including paints, coatings, and cosmetics.
ITEM 9: OPTICAL PROPERTIES AND LUSTER
| Property |
Typical Value |
Description |
| Refractive Index |
1.56 – 1.61 |
Light reflection and refraction capability |
| Luster |
High (pearlescent / metallic) |
Provides luster and depth by reflecting light |
| Reflectance |
70 – 90% |
How much light is reflected |
| Transparency |
Semi-transparent |
Allows partial light transmission |
| Appearance |
Pearlescent / Nacreous |
Pearl or mother-of-pearl appearance |
| Color Spectrum |
Wide (white to dark tones) |
Can be colored naturally or with coated pigments |
Description: Mica's optical properties make it a valuable pigment. High refractive index and reflectance enable pearlescent, metallic, or shiny effects. The thin structure of mica flakes allows light reflection on the surface and creates a sense of depth. These properties make mica indispensable in cosmetic and paint applications.
ITEM 10: COSMETIC AND PERSONAL CARE APPLICATIONS
| Application Category |
Function |
| Makeup Products |
|
| Eye Shadows |
Provides luster and color depth |
| Blush |
Pearlescent luster and color |
| Face Powders |
Soft texture, light reflection |
| Foundations |
Radiant skin appearance |
| Lipsticks and Lip Liners |
Luster, pearlescent effect |
| Nail Polishes |
Luster, color depth |
| Skin Care |
|
| Lotions and Creams |
Radiant appearance, soft texture |
| Body Oils |
Shimmering effect |
| Soap Production |
|
| Soaps |
Decorative effect, luster |
| Shampoos |
Luster (post-shampoo application) |
| Sunscreen |
Light reflection (as physical sunscreen) |
Description: INCI name is "Mica". Mica powder is used in makeup products to provide luster, pearlescent effects, and color depth. Its soft texture and high light-reflecting properties create a natural and radiant appearance on the skin. It is also used for its UV light-reflecting properties as a physical sunscreen agent.
ITEM 11: PAINT AND COATING APPLICATIONS
| Application |
Function / Description |
| Metallic Paints |
Provides metallic and pearlescent effects |
| Automotive Coatings |
Adds depth and luster |
| Industrial Coatings |
Durability and aesthetic appearance |
| Wood Coatings |
Pearlescent and depth effects |
| Decorative Paints |
Special decorative effects |
| Powder Coatings |
Luster and color depth |
| Ceramic and Glass Paints |
High-temperature resistance with post-firing luster |
Description: In the paint and coating industry, mica powder is used to create metallic and pearlescent effects. In automotive coatings, decorative paints, and industrial coatings, it provides depth and luster by reflecting light. Its high chemical resistance and thermal stability enable the creation of durable coatings.
ITEM 12: PLASTIC AND POLYMER APPLICATIONS
| Application |
Function / Description |
| Epoxy Resins |
Decorative effect, luster, reinforcement |
| Polyester Resins |
Luster and aesthetic appearance |
| Thermoplastics |
Color, luster, filler |
| Rubber |
Filler, reinforcement, surface quality |
| Jewelry and Accessories |
Decorative effect, luster |
| 3D Printing Filaments |
Luster and aesthetic appearance |
Description: In the plastic and polymer industry, mica powder is used for decorative purposes (epoxy resin art, jewelry) or as a functional filler. In epoxy resin art, it is preferred for providing depth and luster. In jewelry production, it is used to create stone-like effects.
ITEM 13: ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC APPLICATIONS
| Application |
Function / Description |
| Electrical Insulation |
Provides insulation with high dielectric strength |
| Capacitors |
As dielectric material |
| Thermal Insulation |
Thermal insulation with low thermal conductivity |
| Electrical Panels |
Insulation as sheet mica |
| Resistors |
Heat-resistant insulation |
| Cable and Wire Insulation |
Provides electrical insulation |
Description: Mica is widely used in the electrical and electronics industry due to its excellent electrical insulation properties. High dielectric strength (30-50 kV/mm), high-temperature resistance, and low thermal conductivity are the primary reasons mica is preferred as an insulating material.
ITEM 14: CONSTRUCTION AND CERAMIC APPLICATIONS
| Application |
Function / Description |
| Insulation Materials |
Thermal and acoustic insulation |
| Lightweight Building Elements |
Low-density filler |
| Ceramic Production |
Color, luster, durability |
| Refractory Materials |
High-temperature resistance |
| Cement and Mortar |
Reinforcement, workability enhancer |
| Asphalt |
Filler, durability |
Description: In the construction and ceramic sectors, mica is used as a filler in lightweight building elements and to provide color and luster in ceramic production. Its high-temperature resistance makes it preferred in refractory materials.
ITEM 15: PAPER AND PACKAGING APPLICATIONS
| Application |
Function / Description |
| Paper Coating |
Luster, smoothness, print quality |
| Decorative Paper |
Pearlescent and shiny effects |
| Packaging |
Filler, surface quality |
| Wallpaper |
Decorative effect, luster |
| Cardboard |
Reinforcement, surface quality |
Description: In the paper industry, mica powder is used as a coating material to provide luster and smoothness. It is used in decorative paper and wallpaper to create pearlescent and shiny effects.
ITEM 16: MINERALOGICAL PROPERTIES
| Parameter |
Description |
| Crystal System |
Monoclinic |
| Cleavage |
Perfect basal (001) |
| Cleavage Spacing |
3 – 4 µm (molecular) |
| Mohs Hardness |
2.5 – 3.0 |
| Specific Gravity |
2.76 – 3.10 |
| Pleochroism |
Weak |
| Optical Class |
Biaxial (-) |
| 2V Angle |
30 – 50° |
| Dispersion |
Weak |
Description: Mica is a mineral that crystallizes in the monoclinic crystal system with perfect basal cleavage. This cleavage property allows mica to separate into thin, flexible, and lustrous flakes. This is the fundamental reason why mica is so valuable in industrial and cosmetic applications.
ITEM 17: SYNTHETIC MICA (FLUOROPHLOGOPITE)
| Parameter |
Description |
| Chemical Formula |
KMg₃(AlSi₃O₁₀)F₂ |
| Properties |
|
| Purity |
Very high (>99%) |
| Color |
Clear / White |
| Heat Resistance |
1000 – 1200°C |
| Electrical Insulation |
Excellent |
| Chemical Resistance |
Excellent |
| UV Resistance |
Excellent |
| Advantages |
Higher purity than natural mica, controlled properties, better UV resistance |
| Applications |
High-temperature applications, specialty cosmetic products, electrical insulation |
Description: Synthetic mica (fluorophlogopite) is a man-made form of mica. It offers higher purity, controlled particle size, and better UV resistance compared to natural mica. It also does not contain heavy metal impurities that may be present in natural mica. These properties make synthetic mica ideal for high-quality cosmetic and electronic applications.
ITEM 18: SAFETY AND HEALTH INFORMATION
| Parameter |
Description |
| Acute Oral Toxicity |
Low / Non-toxic |
| Skin Irritation |
Non-irritating |
| Eye Irritation |
Mechanical irritation possible (dust) |
| Inhalation |
Dust inhalation may cause irritation |
| Carcinogenicity |
Not classified |
| Silica Content |
Contains no crystalline silica (amorphous) |
| Asbestos Content |
None |
| Allergen |
Not an allergen |
Important Warning: Mica dust may cause mechanical irritation when inhaled. Proper ventilation should be provided and a dust mask should be used to minimize dust formation. In case of eye contact, rinse with plenty of water. Skin contact is generally safe.
ITEM 19: HANDLING AND TRANSPORTATION PRECAUTIONS
| Parameter |
Recommendation |
| Dust Control |
Minimize dust formation |
| Ventilation |
Adequate general ventilation |
| Personal Protective Equipment |
Dust mask (N95), safety goggles, work gloves |
| Skin Contact |
Wash with soap and water |
| Eye Contact |
Rinse with plenty of water for 15 minutes; seek medical attention if irritation persists |
| Inhalation |
Avoid dust inhalation |
| Ingestion |
Seek medical attention if swallowed |
| Storage |
Cool, dry, closed environment |
Description: Appropriate precautions should be taken to minimize dust formation when using mica powder. It is recommended to use a dust mask (N95) and safety goggles. Prolonged or high-concentration exposure should be avoided.
ITEM 20: STORAGE AND SHELF LIFE
| Parameter |
Description |
| Storage Temperature |
Room temperature (15 – 30°C) |
| Storage Conditions |
Cool, dry, closed environment |
| Moisture |
Keep away from moisture |
| Light |
Protect from direct sunlight |
| Materials to Avoid |
Moisture, acidic environments, hydrofluoric acid |
| Shelf Life |
3 – 5 years (under proper storage conditions) |
| Packaging Material |
PE-lined kraft paper bag, plastic container |
| Signs of Degradation |
Caking, color change, moisture absorption |
Description: Mica powder remains stable for 3-5 years when stored under proper conditions (cool, dry, closed environment). It should be protected from moisture and direct sunlight. Caking may occur if exposed to moisture.
PACKAGING INFORMATION
| Parameter |
Description |
| Standard Packaging |
25 kg PE-lined kraft paper bag |
| Bulk Packaging |
500 – 1000 kg big-bags |
| Small Packaging |
1 kg, 5 kg, 10 kg (customizable) |
| Packaging Materials |
PE-lined paper bag, plastic container, closed drum |
| Labeling |
Product code, particle size, net weight, safety warnings |
SECTOR COMPATIBILITY MATRIX
| Industry |
Suitability |
Primary Functions |
| Cosmetics |
Excellent (INCI) |
Pigment, luster provider, texture modifier |
| Paints and Coatings |
Excellent |
Metallic and pearlescent effects, luster |
| Plastics and Polymers |
Excellent |
Decorative filler, luster, reinforcement |
| Electrical and Electronics |
Excellent |
Insulation, dielectric material |
| Ceramics |
Good |
Color, luster, durability |
| Construction |
Good |
Insulation, lightweight filler, reinforcement |
| Paper and Packaging |
Good |
Coating, luster, surface quality |
| Automotive |
Good |
Coating, insulation, luster |
SYNONYMS AND ALIASES
| English |
Turkish |
| Mica Powder |
Mika Tozu |
| Mica Pigment |
Mika Pigmenti |
| Pearlescent Powder |
Sedef Tozu |
| Pearl Pigment |
İnci Pigmenti |
| Metallic Pigment |
Metalik Pigment |
| Mica Mineral Powder |
Mika Mineral Tozu |
| Natural Mica Powder |
Doğal Mika Tozu |
| Sericite Powder |
Serisit Tozu |
| Shimmer Powder |
Parlaklık Tozu |
| White Mica / Muscovite |
Beyaz Mika / Muskovit |
| Black Mica / Biotite |
Siyah Mika / Biyotit |
| Brown Mica / Phlogopite |
Kahverengi Mika / Flogopit |
| Synthetic Mica / Fluorophlogopite |
Sentetik Mika / Floroflogopit |
QUALITY AND CERTIFICATION SUMMARY
| Certificate / Standard |
Status |
| ISO 9001:2015 |
Certified manufacturing sites |
| ISO 14001:2015 |
Environmental Management System |
| REACH (EC 1907/2006) |
Compliant and registered |
| FDA 21 CFR |
Suitable for cosmetic and food contact |
| EU Cosmetics Regulation |
Compliant (INCI listed) |
| OEKO-TEX |
Available (select grades) |
| ECONEA |
Available (select grades) |
| Halal / Kosher |
Available upon request |
Disclaimer: This Technical Data Sheet provides typical values for reference purposes only. All values are based on standard laboratory measurements and do not constitute a binding specification. For binding properties, please request the Certificate of Analysis (COA) for each specific batch. The user is solely responsible for determining product suitability for their intended application and for compliance with all applicable regulations. Safety Data Sheet (SDS) must be requested from the supplier before use.
