Quicklime (calcium oxide) [CaO]
Calcium oxide (CaO), produced by heating limestone; it reacts with water to form slaked lime.
Characteristics
- Reacts violently with water, releasing enough heat to ignite combustible materials.
- Forms calcium hydroxide (slaked lime) on contact with water.
- Corrosive to eyes, skin and respiratory tract.
- Traditional raw material for making the slaked lime used in mineral broths.
Role in the preparation: Serves as a calcium source and is slaked with water to obtain calcium hydroxide before use in a preparation.
Caution: Keep strictly dry, add it slowly to water and never water onto it, and wear goggles, gloves, long-sleeved clothing and a P2 dust mask.
Sources: International Chemical Safety Cards – Calcium oxide (ICSC 0409)
Documentary information: this is neither a recommendation for use nor a plant-protection or veterinary claim. Check your country's regulations before any use.