Talc is a refined hydrated magnesium silicate which is an off-white powder. It is a common metamorphic mineral found naturally throughout the world. Talc is the softest mineral on the planet and is a tri-octahedral layered mineral with a similar structure to pyrophyllite but with magnesium in the octahedral sites of the composite layers. It is relatively inert and is virtually insoluble in water, weak acids and weak bases. Although it has very little chemical reactivity, talc does have an affinity for certain organic chemicals. Above 900C, talc loses its hydroxyl groups and above 1050C, it converts into anhydrous magnesium silicate. Above 1300C it melts. Talc is used in many industries such as paper making, plastic, paint and coatings, rubber, electric cable, ceramics, etc.