Calcium, Zinc & Magnesium Stearates: What’s the Difference?

All stearates are not created equal. If you’re using them in plastics, rubber, coatings, food, or pharmaceuticals, the type you choose can make or break your process.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Calcium Stearate – Common in plastics and rubber. Acts as a release agent and stabilizer. Cost-effective and widely used.

• Zinc Stearate – Offers excellent lubricity and moisture resistance. Often used in paints, coatings, and rubber compounds.

• Magnesium Stearate – Popular in food and pharma. It’s an ideal flow agent and tablet lubricant.

Knowing which one to use—and why—can prevent issues like clumping, uneven flow, poor mold release, or unstable formulations.

At Prime Materials, we don’t just stock stearates—we help customers make informed decisions based on process needs, regulatory requirements, and performance goals. We supply it fast, and we keep it consistent.

Need help selecting the right stearate? We’re here to guide the choice and get you what you need, when you need it.

→ Talk to us today: https://www.primematerials.com/contact