Overview
Calcium sulfate granules are a common inorganic salt existing in both anhydrous (CaSO4) and dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O) forms. The dihydrate form, known as gypsum, is naturally occurring and widely mined. Industrially produced granules offer controlled particle sizes (typically 0.5-3mm) for specific applications. The compound has been used since ancient times for construction purposes and remains vital in modern industries due to its unique setting properties when mixed with water. Manufacturers produce calcium sulfate granules through either mining natural gypsum deposits or synthetic processes, such as flue-gas desulfurization byproducts. The material is valued for its fire resistance, pH neutrality, and compatibility with other building materials. Food-grade variants undergo additional purification to meet strict regulatory standards for human consumption.
Physical and Chemical Properties
Calcium sulfate granules exhibit low solubility in water (approximately 0.24g per 100mL at room temperature), which increases slightly with temperature before decreasing beyond 40°C. The dihydrate form undergoes endothermic dehydration at 128°C to form hemihydrate (CaSO4·0.5H2O), commonly known as plaster of Paris. Complete dehydration to anhydrous calcium sulfate occurs at higher temperatures. The granules have a Mohs hardness of 2, making them relatively soft compared to other construction minerals. Their thermal conductivity is low (0.17 W/m·K), contributing to insulation properties. Chemically, calcium sulfate is stable under normal conditions but reacts with strong acids to form corresponding calcium salts. The compound is non-combustible and does not produce toxic fumes when heated.
Main Applications
In construction, calcium sulfate granules serve as a crucial component in Portland cement, where they regulate setting time. The building industry utilizes gypsum granules for drywall production, with the material prized for its fire resistance and soundproofing qualities. Agricultural applications include soil amendment to improve structure and provide calcium/sulfur nutrients, particularly in sodic soils. The food industry employs food-grade calcium sulfate (E516) as a firming agent in tofu production, dough conditioner, and calcium fortifier. Pharmaceutical applications include tablet excipients and dental molds. Medical grade gypsum forms the basis of orthopedic casts. Emerging uses include water treatment for heavy metal removal and as a component in certain ceramic glazes.
Safety and Storage
While calcium sulfate is generally considered low toxicity (LD50 > 5000 mg/kg orally in rats), inhalation of fine dust may cause respiratory irritation. Appropriate personal protective equipment (safety glasses, dust masks) should be worn during bulk handling. The material presents no significant environmental hazards and is biodegradable. Storage requires protection from moisture to prevent caking, particularly for anhydrous forms. Bulk storage silos should maintain relative humidity below 50%. Food-grade material must be stored separately from industrial grades to prevent contamination. Shelf life is typically 2-3 years when properly stored. Spills should be cleaned with dry methods; water washing may create slurry that hardens upon drying.
B2B Procurement Guide
Industrial buyers should specify technical parameters including: hydration state (anhydrous/hemihydrate/dihydrate), purity (industrial grade typically 95-98%, food/pharma grade 99%+), particle size distribution (mesh size), and bulk density. Packaging options range from 25kg bags to bulk tanker trucks for large-scale users. Key suppliers include cement additive specialists and mineral processors. Price fluctuates with gypsum mining output and energy costs. For consistent quality, consider manufacturers with ISO 9001 certification. Sample testing is recommended to verify setting time and strength characteristics for construction applications. Minimum order quantities typically start at 1 metric ton for industrial grades, with price breaks at 10-ton increments.
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