Hydrated Lime is chemically defined as Calcium Hydroxide, with the formula Ca(OH)₂ and a CAS number of 1305-62-0. It is manufactured by treating quicklime (Calcium Oxide) with water in a controlled slaking process, resulting in a fine, dry, white powder. The particle size and moisture content can influence its reactivity and handling characteristics. This chemical is moderately soluble in water, releasing hydroxide ions (OH⁻), which confer strong alkalinity to solutions typically with pH values between 12 and 13, depending on concentration.
The primary mechanism at work in water treatment is precipitation and neutralization. When added to acidic water or wastewater, Hydrated Lime raises pH levels and precipitates dissolved metals and suspended solids by forming insoluble compounds that can be filtered out. It is especially effective in removing hardness and heavy metals, improving water clarity and safety. In construction, its ability to bind with silicates stabilizes soils and enhances workability of mortars and plasters, improving durability and resistance to cracking.
Key properties that buyers monitor include purity, usually indicated by calcium hydroxide content, and absence of contaminants such as magnesium or unreacted lime. Particle size distribution impacts dispersion when used in slurries and also affects reactivity rate. The fine crystalline form supplied by Zenco Systems Ltd ensures consistent dosing and predictable performance in the demanding environments of East Africa. While technically classified under the water treatment chemicals category, Hydrated Lime’s versatility also extends to industrial pH adjustment and chemical reagent applications across multiple sectors.