Calcium Hydroxide[3]
Overview
Calcium hydroxide is a versatile inorganic compound formed by the exothermic reaction of calcium oxide (quicklime) with water, a process known as slaking. It has been used for centuries in construction, agriculture, and food preparation due to its alkaline properties and low cost. In modern industry, it serves as a critical raw material for pH adjustment, flue gas desulfurization, and wastewater treatment. As a base, it neutralizes acids and reacts with carbon dioxide to form calcium carbonate, making it useful in environmental applications. Its low solubility in water allows for controlled release of hydroxide ions, which is advantageous in processes requiring gradual alkalinity adjustments.
Physical and Chemical Properties
Calcium hydroxide appears as a fine white powder or colorless crystals with a density of 2.211 g/cm³. It decomposes at 580°C into calcium oxide and water vapor. The compound is sparingly soluble in water (1.73 g/L at 20°C), forming a mildly alkaline solution known as limewater with a pH of 12.4. Key chemical behaviors include its reaction with acids to form salts (neutralization), absorption of atmospheric CO₂ to create calcium carbonate (carbonation), and its ability to precipitate metal hydroxides from solutions. These properties make it invaluable in industrial chemistry and environmental management.
Main Applications
In construction, calcium hydroxide is a key component in mortar and plaster, where it contributes to workability and long-term strength development through carbonation. The water treatment industry uses it for pH adjustment, heavy metal removal, and softening hard water by precipitating magnesium and calcium ions. Food-grade calcium hydroxide (E526) is employed in corn processing (nixtamalization), pickle production, and as a firming agent. Other uses include flue gas desulfurization in power plants, leather tanning, and as a precursor in chemical synthesis for calcium-based compounds.
Safety and Storage
As a strong alkali, calcium hydroxide requires careful handling. It can cause severe skin burns, eye damage, and respiratory irritation if inhaled as dust. Proper PPE including chemical-resistant gloves, goggles, and dust masks should be worn during handling. Store in tightly sealed containers away from acids and moisture to prevent caking and degradation. Bulk storage silos should have moisture barriers and temperature controls to maintain product quality. Spills should be neutralized with weak acids like vinegar before cleanup.
B2B Procurement Guide
Industrial buyers should specify technical parameters including purity (typically 90-96%), particle size (200-400 mesh for most applications), and moisture content (<2% for powder). Food-grade purchases require certification (e.g., FCC, USP) and heavy metal testing reports. Bulk shipments (25-50 kg bags or tanker trucks for slurry) offer cost advantages over retail packaging. Establish long-term contracts with suppliers near lime production facilities to minimize transportation costs, which can significantly impact the total price per ton.
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