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Calcium Hydroxide Powder

Calcium Hydroxide Powder used for water treatment, construction, and industrial pH adjustment across East Africa.

Calcium Hydroxide Powder belongs to the family of alkaline earth metal hydroxides, specifically as a hydrated form of calcium oxide.

Packaging

25kg bags, 200kg drums

Supply Region

Kenya, East Africa

Supplier

Zenco Systems Ltd

What is Calcium Hydroxide Powder?

Calcium Hydroxide Powder belongs to the family of alkaline earth metal hydroxides, specifically as a hydrated form of calcium oxide. Known commonly as slaked lime, this white powder is a fundamental chemical in several industrial sectors. It serves as a critical agent to adjust pH levels, particularly where strong alkalinity is necessary. Across Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and the broader East African region, Calcium Hydroxide Powder is indispensable in water treatment plants to neutralize acidity and remove impurities.

Industries like construction use it extensively in mortar and plaster formulations, exploiting its chemical reactivity for setting and strength. The chemical’s capacity for pH regulation makes it invaluable in manufacturing and environmental management, while the food sector applies it carefully as a processing aid and pH buffer. Zenco Systems Ltd supplies Calcium Hydroxide Powder reliably in the region, supporting these interconnected markets with consistent product quality and supply chain expertise.

Calcium Hydroxide Powder: Detailed Product Overview

Calcium Hydroxide Powder's chemical identity is Ca(OH)₂, a compound formed by reacting calcium oxide (quicklime) with water in a process called slaking. This reaction produces a fine white powder composed primarily of hydrated calcium ions and hydroxide ions. Its molecular weight is 74.09 g/mol, and it exhibits slight solubility in water, producing a clear, strongly alkaline solution with a typical pH of around 12.4. This alkaline nature underpins much of its industrial value.

When dissolved, calcium hydroxide dissociates, releasing hydroxide ions that raise pH. This property allows it to neutralize acidic contaminants in water treatment, precipitate heavy metals, and adjust soil conditions in agriculture. The physical appearance as a fine white powder facilitates easy dosing and dispersion in liquids or mixes. Its caustic property necessitates careful handling, as the powder can irritate skin and eyes.

Performance in construction benefits from its moderate solubility and chemical reactivity, fostering chemical reactions that enhance mortar setting and durability. The compound also reacts with carbon dioxide in the atmosphere to form calcium carbonate, reinforcing hardened materials.

Purity and grade vary by application, ranging from technical grades for industrial pH control to food-grade for edible uses. Buyers sourcing from Zenco Systems Ltd should verify these specifications to fit exact process requirements. The compound's stability demands storage in dry, ventilated conditions to prevent hydration and caking, ensuring consistent performance.

Applications and Uses of Calcium Hydroxide Powder

Water Treatment

Calcium Hydroxide Powder is widely used in municipal and industrial water treatment to raise pH, precipitate heavy metals, and remove suspended solids. Its alkaline solution neutralizes acidic contaminants and softens hard water by reacting with carbonate and bicarbonate ions. Dosages vary depending on water chemistry, but typical concentrations ensure effective coagulation and sedimentation, improving water clarity and safety.

Flue Gas Treatment

In flue gas desulfurization (FGD), calcium hydroxide acts as a sorbent to capture sulfur dioxide emissions from power plants and factories. The powder, when hydrated and injected, reacts with SO₂ to form calcium sulfite or sulfate compounds, reducing atmospheric pollution and complying with environmental regulations. This chemical pathway is favored for its effectiveness and relatively low cost.

Construction Material

Slaked lime forms a core ingredient in mortars, plasters, and stucco. Its chemical reaction with carbon dioxide gradually converts it into calcium carbonate, providing strength and long-term durability to construction materials. It improves workability, adhesion, and water retention, making it a preferred binder in traditional and modern building practices across East Africa.

pH Adjustment in Industrial Processes

Calcium Hydroxide Powder is used to maintain or raise pH levels in various manufacturing streams, including chemical, paper, and mining industries. Its ability to create alkaline conditions enables control over precipitation, corrosion, and enzymatic processes, optimizing product quality and process efficiency. Dosage control is essential to avoid over-alkalinity that could harm equipment or downstream steps.

Food Processing

In the food industry, calcium hydroxide serves as a processing aid and pH regulator, particularly in the production of canned vegetables, sugar refining, and nixtamalization of maize. It assists in softening, sterilization, and flavor stabilization, while maintaining food safety standards. Only food-grade calcium hydroxide with confirmed purity is suitable for these applications.

Mining Processes

Mining operations use calcium hydroxide to neutralize acidic mine drainage and adjust slurry pH to optimize metal recovery. It precipitates dissolved metals as insoluble hydroxides, aiding separation and reducing environmental impact. Precise dosing helps maintain process stability and complies with environmental discharge requirements.

Looking for alternatives for a specific process? Browse the full Agricultural Chemicals range or ask our technical team which grade fits your application.

Benefits and Advantages

Effective pH Regulation

Calcium Hydroxide's strong alkalinity ensures precise pH adjustment in liquids and soils. This capability allows industries to control chemical reactions, stabilize products, or prepare environments suitable for specific biological or chemical processes.

Versatile Industrial Use

Its chemical reactivity and physical form make calcium hydroxide applicable in diverse sectors, from water treatment to construction and food manufacturing. This versatility streamlines procurement and reduces the need for multiple specialized chemicals.

Cost Efficiency

Often more affordable and easier to handle than alternative alkaline agents, calcium hydroxide delivers substantial operational savings. Its common availability in East Africa through suppliers like Zenco Systems Ltd reduces lead times and shipping expenses.

Environmental Compliance

Calcium Hydroxide’s use in flue gas desulfurization and wastewater treatment helps industries meet regulatory standards for pollution control, avoiding fines and improving corporate responsibility profiles.

Improved Material Properties

In construction, the ability of calcium hydroxide to harden into calcium carbonate enhances the durability and longevity of building materials, making it a preferred additive for long-lasting infrastructure.

Packaging Information

Calcium Hydroxide Powder is available in 25kg bags and 200kg drums, suitable for varied industrial needs. These pack sizes align with typical usage rates in East African markets, facilitating manageable handling and storage. For bulk needs, Zenco Systems Ltd can coordinate larger volume shipments with appropriate packaging and logistics support across Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and Rwanda. Packaging materials are selected to protect against moisture and contamination during transport and storage.

Standard formats: 25kg bags, 200kg drums

Storage and Handling

Store Calcium Hydroxide Powder in a dry, cool, and well-ventilated area away from moisture sources, as it absorbs water and forms lumps upon hydration. Use airtight containers or sealed bags to maintain quality. Keep it segregated from acids, ammonium salts, and incompatible substances. Handling requires protective gloves, goggles, and dust masks since inhaling powder or skin contact can cause irritation. Shelf life is generally stable if stored properly but confirm stability periods with the certificate of analysis.

Safety Information

Calcium Hydroxide Powder is caustic and can cause skin and eye irritation upon contact. Always use gloves, protective eyewear, and dust masks during handling to avoid exposure. In case of contact, rinse affected areas with plenty of water immediately. Avoid inhaling dust; use adequate ventilation or respiratory protection. Dispose of waste according to local environmental regulations. Refer to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for complete hazard and first aid information.

Technical Specifications

GradeConfirm with supplier
PurityConfirm with supplier
FormulaCa(OH)₂
Packaging25kg bags, 200kg drums
AppearanceWhite powder
CAS Number1305-62-0
SolubilitySlightly soluble in water (~1.73 g/L at 20°C)
Chemical NameCalcium Hydroxide
Storage ConditionsKeep dry, ventilated, and away from moisture
pH (saturated solution)Approx. 12.4

Applications

  • Water treatment
  • Flue gas treatment
  • Construction material
  • pH adjustment
  • Food processing
  • Mining processes

Technical Data Sheet (TDS)

GradeConfirm with supplier
PurityConfirm with supplier
FormulaCa(OH)₂
Packaging25kg bags, 200kg drums
AppearanceWhite powder
CAS Number1305-62-0
SolubilitySlightly soluble in water (~1.73 g/L at 20°C)
Chemical NameCalcium Hydroxide
Storage ConditionsKeep dry, ventilated, and away from moisture
pH (saturated solution)Approx. 12.4

Product Features

  • - White fine powder with alkaline properties
  • - Slightly soluble in water forming pH ~12.4
  • - Commonly called slaked lime or hydrated lime
  • - Reacts with CO₂ to form calcium carbonate
  • - Caustic, requires careful handling
  • - Stable if stored dry and sealed

Industries Served

  • - Water treatment
  • - Construction
  • - Mining
  • - Food processing
  • - Chemical manufacturing
  • - Environmental management
  • - Paper production
  • - Agriculture

Product Overview

Frequently Asked Questions About Calcium Hydroxide Powder

What are the main uses of Calcium Hydroxide Powder?

It is primarily used for pH adjustment, water treatment to remove impurities, construction materials like mortar, food processing as a pH regulator, and environmental flue gas treatment.

How should Calcium Hydroxide Powder be dosed in water treatment?

Dosing depends on water acidity and contaminants, typically ranging from a few milligrams to several grams per litre, carefully adjusted to reach neutral or slightly alkaline pH without overdosing.

Is there a food-grade Calcium Hydroxide Powder available?

Yes, but buyers should confirm with Zenco Systems Ltd that the supplied product meets food-grade purity and certification standards before food industry use.

How is Calcium Hydroxide Powder supplied and packaged in East Africa?

It is available in 25kg bags and 200kg drums, with Zenco Systems Ltd offering supply and logistics support across Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and Rwanda to ensure timely delivery.

What precautions are necessary when handling this chemical?

Use gloves, safety goggles, and dust masks. Avoid inhalation and contact with skin or eyes. Work in well-ventilated areas to minimize dust exposure.

Can you supply Calcium Hydroxide Powder outside Kenya?

Yes, Zenco Systems Ltd supplies to Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, and other East African countries with established logistics networks to ensure efficient cross-border delivery.

What is the shelf life of Calcium Hydroxide Powder?

When stored properly in dry, sealed conditions, the powder remains stable for months. Confirm specific shelf life guidance with the supplier based on batch testing.

Does Calcium Hydroxide Powder react with moisture during storage?

Yes, it absorbs moisture and carbon dioxide from the air to form lumps and calcium carbonate, which reduces reactivity. Proper packaging and storage reduce these effects.

Is Calcium Hydroxide compatible with other chemicals?

It should be kept separate from acids and ammonium salts to prevent violent reactions. Compatibility with process chemicals should be evaluated case-by-case.

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