Calcium Chloride

Product Name: Calcium Chloride Flake

Purity Grade: Analytical Grade

CAS Number: 10043-52-4

Size: Flake shape 5-10mm in length

Appearance: White flakes

Other Features: Hydrophilic

Calcium chloride is a versatile compound that finds widespread use in various industries and applications. With its unique properties and multiple benefits, this chemical compound has become a key ingredient in various products and processes.

What is Calcium Chloride?

Calcium chloride, with the chemical formula CaCl2, is a white crystalline salt that is highly soluble in water. It is derived from limestone and is produced through a variety of processes, including the reaction of calcium carbonate with hydrochloric acid. Calcium chloride is hygroscopic and readily absorbs moisture from the atmosphere, making it effective in applications that require moisture control.

Industrial Applications

De-Icing and Dust Control

One of the most common uses of calcium chloride is in de-icing roads, parking lots, and sidewalks during winter. When calcium chloride is applied to icy surfaces, it lowers the freezing point of water, preventing the formation of ice and facilitating melting. Its hygroscopic nature also helps to prevent the re-freezing of melted ice.
Calcium chloride is also widely used for dust control in construction, mining, and agricultural sectors. It helps to keep dust particles in check by binding them together and reducing airborne dust, improving air quality and visibility.

Concrete Acceleration

Calcium chloride plays a crucial role in accelerating the setting and hardening of concrete. By adding calcium chloride to the concrete mix, construction professionals can reduce the setting time, increase early strength development, and enhance the overall strength of the structure. This makes it an ideal choice for projects that require rapid construction or repair.

Oil and Gas Industry

In the oil and gas industry, calcium chloride is used for various purposes. It is commonly employed as a brine solution in well drilling and completion fluids. Calcium chloride brines are effective in controlling formation pressures, preventing well collapse, and ensuring fluid flow during drilling operations.
Furthermore, calcium chloride is a vital component in the processing and refining of petroleum products. It aids in the removal of impurities, such as water and sulfur, from crude oil and natural gas, ensuring the production of high-quality fuels.

Agricultural and Horticultural Applications

Soil Amendment

Calcium chloride is utilized in agriculture to improve soil fertility and structure. It provides a source of calcium, an essential nutrient for plant growth, and helps to maintain the proper pH levels in the soil. Additionally, calcium chloride can help to mitigate soil salinity issues by displacing sodium ions and promoting proper plant hydration.

Fertilizer Additive

As a fertilizer additive, calcium chloride enhances the efficiency and effectiveness of other nutrients. It improves nutrient uptake by plants, aids in root development, and mitigates nutrient deficiencies. Moreover, it helps to reduce the loss of nitrogen through leaching, thereby maximizing fertilization efforts.

Produce Preservation

Calcium chloride is widely used in post-harvest applications to extend the shelf life and quality of fruits and vegetables. It helps to maintain firmness, reduce decay, and prevent the breakdown of pectin, a naturally occurring substance that holds plant cells together. By doing so, calcium chloride ensures that the produce retains its freshness and appearance for a longer duration.

Other Applications

Food Industry

In the food industry, calcium chloride serves various purposes. It is used as a firming agent, aiding in the production of cheese, tofu, and other dairy products. It is also employed as a preservative and a flavor enhancer in certain food preparations. Furthermore, calcium chloride is utilized in the production of canned vegetables and fruits, helping to maintain their texture and appearance.

Water Treatment

Calcium chloride finds application in water treatment processes, including wastewater treatment, desalination, and swimming pool maintenance. It aids in the removal of impurities, including heavy metals, from water, making it safe for consumption and other applications. Additionally, it helps to prevent the growth of algae in swimming pools, ensuring clean and clear water.

Calcium chloride is indeed an essential compound with a wide range of applications across various industries. Whether it is used for de-icing roads, accelerating concrete construction, improving soil fertility, preserving produce, or enhancing food and water quality, this versatile compound continues to prove its worth. Its unique properties and diverse benefits make it an invaluable ingredient in countless processes and products, contributing to a safer, more efficient, and sustainable world.