Abstract: A composition of thermoplastic polymer and powdered dried carbide lime. The composition may also be a composition comprising (a) 5-60 parts by weight of powdered dried carbide lime; (b) 20 -95 parts by weight of at least one thermoplastic material selected from the group consisting of thermoplastic polymer, thermoplastic elastomer, and thermoplastic rubber; and (c) 0-60 parts by weight of at least one additive selected from lubricants; stabiliser; antioxidants; plasticisers; pigments and dyes; anti-blocking, anti-static, blowing and release agents; flame-retardants; impact modifiers; coupling and wetting agents; other processing aids and fibrous reinforcing agents. Processes for preparing the powdered dried carbide lime for use as fillers in plastics are also disclosed.