APPLICATIONS

The paint industry extensively uses Indian mica powder as a pigment extender. Mica enhances the longevity of paints, by reducing chalking and facilitating suspension. It simultaneously works on preventing shrinking and shearing of paint film along with weathering and water seepage or penetration. Mica is best known for its lustrous properties, brightening hues of pigments while improving adhesion. 

Various cosmetics ranging from make-up including eyeshadow, lipsticks, blush, glitter, mascara, lipstick, lip gloss nail polish to other products with sheen such as shampoo, moisturizing lotion, toothpaste rely on mica for its pearlescent effect.

Dry-ground mica is used as a critical extender and filler in the plastic industry. The mechanical properties of plastic is significantly enhanced with mica, providing it stability, stiffness and strength.
As with most mica applications, Mica-reinforced plastics have high tolerance to heat reducing warpage and the most superior surface properties.

Traditionally Indians have been using fine Mica powder to add brilliance to Gulal and Abir (coloured powders) used for various Hindu festivals.