PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES: Calcium stearate is a compound of calcium with fine mixture of solid organic acids . It is the calcium salt of stearic and palmatic acid . It is morever , insoluble in water,ether and alcohol , partially soluble in hot alcohol and very well soluble in hot pyridine.It is non toxic in nature.It is available  in form of white to slightly yellowish granular fatty  powder.It decomposes itself on heating above 150 degree celcius.It too emits irritating fumes when heated.Extremely low solubility makes calcium stearate a very versatile substance .

FORMULA : Ca(C17H35COO)2

SYNONYMS : Calcium salt of Stearic acid,Calcium octadecanoate , Calcium salt of octadecanoic acid,Calcium distearate 

USES :Calcium stearate is used as a stabilizer and as an acid scavenger in the plastic industry.It works as a lubricant in pencils and crayons.It is used as a catalyst in chemical synthesis.It finds its application as a water proofing additive in fabrics,stucco,concrete and explosive.It is also applied as a drying lubricant and dusting agent for rubbers.It too,acts as a releasing agent for plastic molding powder.It acts as a highly effective flatting and sanding agent in lacquers,coating and inks. It is mainly used as a dough conditioner and softener. Pharmaceutically, it is used in tablet manufacturing .It also serves as a flow agent in powders including some foods.Its field of application also includes it as a  flavouring agent ,thickening agent,anti-tack agent , gelling agent and as a emulsifier.In rigid PVC it contributes in accelarating fusion and helps in improving its flow.