Optimization of milling parameters on the synthesis of stearic acid coated CaCO3 nanoparticles

Surface modification of precipitated calcium carbonate particles (calcite) in a planetary ball mill using stearic acid as a modification agent for making dispersion in hydrocarbon oil was investigated. Different parameters for processing (milling) such as milling time, ball-to-sample ratio, and molar ratio of the reactant were varied and analyzed for optimization. The physical properties of the hydrophobically modified calcium carbonate particles were measured; the particle size and morphology of the resulting samples were characterized by transmission electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction. The surface coating thickness was estimated using small angle X-ray scattering. © 2014 American Coatings Association & Oil and Colour Chemists' Association.