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China Clay, Calcined (Kaolin)

  • Abrasives
  • CAS 66402-68-4
  • IUPAC: Calcined kaolin

China Clay, Calcined (Kaolin) (CAS 66402-68-4) appears in 5 of the 1,812 car-care products CarCareTruth tracks (as of June 2026).

No GHS hazard classification at product-level concentrations. Inhalation of calcined kaolin dust in industrial settings carries a silicosis risk, but this does not apply to closed automotive formulations. Oral or skin contact: no significant hazard.

Calcined china clay (kaolin) is a naturally occurring aluminium silicate clay mineral that has been heat-processed (calcined) to alter its physical properties. In automotive products it functions as a mild polishing agent and filler, providing texture and mild abrasive action in liquid waxes, glazes, and polishes. The calcination process increases its hardness slightly compared to uncalcined kaolin.

The primary concern with industrial kaolin dust inhalation (silicosis) does not apply to sealed formulations. At the concentrations used in detailing products (1–10%), this is an inert mineral ingredient.

Health & environment profile

VOC
no
Prop 65 listed
no
Asthmagen
no
EPA Safer Choice
no
Aquatic toxicity
no
Biodegradable
no
Bioaccumulative
no
Persistent
no
Ozone depleting
no
Microplastic
no
PFAS
no
Env. score
5/5
Purpose: Mild abrasive filler and polishing agent; provides body to paste/cream formulations

Common questions about China Clay, Calcined (Kaolin)

What is China Clay, Calcined (Kaolin) used for in car care?
Mild abrasive filler and polishing agent; provides body to paste/cream formulations
Is China Clay, Calcined (Kaolin) a VOC?
No. China Clay, Calcined (Kaolin) is not classified as a volatile organic compound (VOC).
Is China Clay, Calcined (Kaolin) on California's Proposition 65 list?
No. China Clay, Calcined (Kaolin) is not on California's Proposition 65 list.

5 products contain this

Related

Health and environment notes translate the manufacturer Safety Data Sheet, the GHS classification, and authoritative regulatory listings (California Prop 65, EPA). Not medical advice. They describe the ingredient itself; whether a hazard applies to a finished product depends on its concentration and how it's used.