[Chemical Knowledge]：Properties, uses, upstream and downstream raw materials, storage methods, presence of calcium oxide

Calcium oxide properties

Calcium oxide (CaO), commonly known as quicklime, is an inorganic compound. It exists in the form of white or off-white solid, which is alkaline and has strong hygroscopicity. Its chemical nature is lively, easy to react violently with water to generate calcium hydroxide, release a lot of heat. This reaction is one of the most important properties of quicklime and is widely used in a variety of industrial processes. Calcium oxide has a melting point of 2572°C and a boiling point of 2850°C, which makes it also an important application in high-temperature industries.

Calcium oxide uses

Calcium oxide is widely used in many industrial fields. In the steel industry, calcium oxide is used as a flux to help remove impurities from iron ore and improve the purity of steel. In the construction industry, calcium oxide is an important raw material for the production of cement and lime mortar. Third, in the chemical industry, calcium oxide is used in the manufacture of bleaching powder, soda ash (Na2CO3) and lime nitrogen (CaCN2). Calcium oxide is also used in environmental protection fields, such as waste water treatment and flue gas desulfurization, because it can react with acidic pollutants to form harmless salts.

Upstream raw materials

The main upstream raw material for calcium oxide is limestone (CaCO3). Limestone is an abundant and widely distributed mineral that decomposes to form calcium oxide and carbon dioxide through calcination. The calcination process is typically carried out in a rotary or vertical kiln at high temperature (about 900°C to 1000°C). In order to obtain high quality calcium oxide, the purity and particle size distribution of limestone are the key factors. Other upstream feedstocks include fuels such as coal, natural gas, or petroleum coke, which provide the thermal energy required for calcination.

Downstream Products

There are many kinds of downstream products of calcium oxide. Calcium hydroxide (hydrated lime) is the most direct downstream product, which is generated by the reaction of calcium oxide and water, and is widely used in construction, soil improvement and water treatment. Calcium oxide can also be used to produce various calcium compounds, such as calcium chloride, calcium sulfate and calcium nitrate, which have important uses in industry, agriculture and food. The application of calcium oxide also extends to the pulp and paper industry to adjust the pH of the slurry and improve the quality of the paper.

storage method

Since calcium oxide is strongly hygroscopic and corrosive, its storage requires special attention. Calcium oxide should be stored in a dry, ventilated warehouse to avoid moisture and exposure to the air. The ideal storage environment temperature should be controlled at room temperature, and the humidity should be kept as low as possible. Calcium oxide should be stored in isolation from acids and combustibles to prevent chemical reactions or fires. Wear protective equipment such as gloves, goggles and dust masks during storage and handling to avoid injury from inhalation of dust or skin contact.

Environmental and safety considerations

The use and production of calcium oxide will produce certain environmental and safety problems. The carbon dioxide emitted during the production of calcium oxide is a greenhouse gas and has an impact on climate change. Calcium oxide in the process of use, if not handled properly, may cause pollution to water and soil. Therefore, in the production and use of calcium oxide, it is necessary to take effective environmental protection measures, such as the installation of dust removal equipment and exhaust gas treatment systems. When handling and storing calcium oxide, safety regulations must be strictly observed to prevent fire, explosion or personal injury.

Market Trends and Prospects

With the advancement of industrialization and the improvement of environmental protection requirements, the market demand for calcium oxide continues to grow. Especially in the fields of steel, construction and environmental protection, the application prospect of calcium oxide is broad. With the progress of technology, the production process of calcium oxide is continuously optimized, the production efficiency is improved and the cost is reduced. The development of new energy and new materials has also brought new application opportunities for calcium oxide, such as applications in battery materials and high-performance ceramics. Overall, the calcium oxide industry will maintain steady growth in the next few years, and the market prospects are promising.

Summary

As an important chemical raw material, calcium oxide has a wide range of industrial applications and market demand. Its lively chemical properties make it play an irreplaceable role in the fields of steel, construction, chemical industry and environmental protection. The upstream raw material is mainly limestone, which is obtained by high-temperature calcination of calcium oxide, and the downstream products are diverse and have a wide range of applications. During storage and use, special attention should be paid to its hygroscopicity and corrosiveness, and necessary safety and environmental protection measures should be taken. With the progress of industrial technology and the enhancement of environmental awareness, the market prospect of calcium oxide will be broader.