What is kaolin powder and what are its main uses?
Kaolin powder is a white, pasty mineral powder mainly composed of kaolinite minerals. Thanks to its excellent whiteness, chemical stability and adsorption properties, it is widely used in ceramics, paper, paints, coatings, plastics, rubber industries.
Which regions are the main exporters of kaolin powder?
The main exporting regions include the United States, Brazil, China, India and Australia. These regions dominate global production due to their abundant reserves and advanced processing technologies.
What quality standards should I pay attention to when importing kaolin powder?
Key parameters include: whiteness (≥85%), particle size distribution (D50<2μm for premium grades), moisture content (<1%), and chemical purity (low iron/titanium content). Certifications like ISO 9001 or industry-specific standards may also be required.
How is kaolin powder packaged for international transportation?
Usually, kaolin powder is packaged in 25kg or 50kg multi-layer paper bags. For large orders, bulk transportation (in bulk bags or bulk cargo vessels) is adopted. It is crucial to mark product specifications, batch numbers and safety labels (e.g., "non-hazardous goods") on the packages.
What are the common trade terms in kaolin powder trade?
Common trade terms include FOB (Free On Board), CIF (Cost, Insurance and Freight) and EXW (Ex Works). The selection depends on negotiations between buyers and sellers regarding transportation responsibilities and costs.
What documents are required for importing kaolin powder?
Required documents include commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading (B/L), certificate of origin and quality inspection report. Some countries/regions may require additional permits (e.g., environmental compliance certificates).
What payment terms do kaolin powder suppliers commonly accept?
Suppliers commonly accept letters of credit (LC), telegraphic transfer (TT) or secure payment platforms (e.g., Alibaba Trade Assurance). The standard practice is to prepay 30% as a deposit, and the balance is paid before shipment.
Can kaolin powder be customized for specific industrial uses?
Yes, suppliers offer tailored grades based on client needs, such as:
Calcined kaolin (for high-temperature resistance in ceramics).
Surface-modified kaolin (for improved dispersion in coatings).
Ultra-fine kaolin (for premium paper or cosmetics).