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

Calcium Sulfate Properties

Physical Properties Calcium sulfate (CaSO?) is an inorganic compound, commonly in the form of a white powder or colorless crystals. Its relative density is about 2.96 and its melting point is about 1460°C. The solubility in water is low, about 2.1g/L(25°C), but it has higher solubility in acid. The crystal forms of calcium sulfate are various, such as anhydrous calcium sulfate (anhydrite), dihydrate calcium sulfate (gypsum) and hemihydrate calcium sulfate (plaster of Paris).

Chemical properties Calcium sulfate has relatively stable chemical properties. It decomposes at high temperature to form calcium oxide and sulfur trioxide. Calcium sulfate reacts with water to form gypsum, which is hygroscopic and can form a strong solid, which is suitable for construction and medical fields. Calcium sulfate has good solubility in acidic solutions, but has low solubility in alkaline solutions.

Calcium sulfate uses

Building Materials Calcium sulfate, especially calcium sulfate dihydrate (gypsum), is widely used in building materials. Gypsum board, gypsum powder and gypsum products are common building materials with excellent properties such as fire prevention, sound insulation and humidity control. Plaster of Paris is also used to make models and sculptures, and the architectural decoration effect is remarkable.

Medical field Calcium sulfate is widely used in medical field. Its hygroscopicity and biocompatibility make it an ideal material for fracture fixation. As a bone filling material, calcium sulfate can be used for bone transplantation and bone defect repair, and promote the regeneration and healing of bone tissue.

Agricultural use Calcium sulfate is also used in agriculture, as a soil conditioner and fertilizer additive. Gypsum can improve soil structure, increase soil permeability and air permeability, and promote plant root development. Calcium sulfate can also provide calcium and sulfur elements needed for plant growth, which helps to improve crop yield and quality.

Industrial Applications Calcium sulfate is widely used in industry, especially in the production of cement and gypsum products. It is also used in the paper, rubber, coatings and ceramics industries. Calcium sulfate is used in the manufacture of sulfuric acid and other chemicals as a desulfurizer and filler.

Upstream and downstream raw materials

Upstream raw materials The production of calcium sulfate mainly depends on the mining of natural gypsum ore. The main component of gypsum ore is calcium sulfate dihydrate, and industrial grade calcium sulfate can be obtained through mining, crushing and purification processes. Part of the calcium sulfate may also be prepared by a chemical reaction, such as the reaction of sulfuric acid with calcium hydroxide or calcium carbonate.

Downstream Products The downstream products of calcium sulfate mainly include various gypsum products, such as gypsum board, gypsum powder and gypsum sculpture. Calcium sulfate is also used in the production of building materials, medical materials, agricultural fertilizers and industrial chemicals. The diversity and wide application of its downstream products determine the important position of calcium sulfate in various industries.

Calcium sulfate storage method

Dry storage Because calcium sulfate is hygroscopic, it should be stored in a humid environment. Calcium sulfate should be stored in a dry, well-ventilated warehouse to prevent moisture and agglomeration. Packaging materials should have good moisture resistance, usually sealed bags or sealed containers.

prevent pollution Avoid contact with acidic or alkaline substances during storage of calcium sulfate to prevent chemical reactions from causing product deterioration. The storage area should be kept clean to prevent dust and other impurities from contaminating the calcium sulfate, ensuring its purity and quality.

Secure Storage Calcium sulfate itself is non-toxic and harmless, but safety should be paid attention to during storage and handling. Operators should wear protective equipment to avoid inhaling dust or contact with skin and eyes. The storage area should be equipped with fire fighting equipment to prevent fire accidents.

Conclusion

As an important inorganic compound, calcium sulfate has a variety of excellent properties and a wide range of applications. In the construction, medical, agricultural and industrial fields, calcium sulfate plays an important role. The upstream depends on the mining and chemical synthesis of natural gypsum ore, and the downstream products are diverse and widely used. During storage, attention should be paid to drying, moisture-proof, pollution-proof and safety measures to ensure its quality and safety. Calcium sulfate still has great development potential in various fields in the future and is worthy of further research and application.