Although Quicklime & Hydrated Lime are both made from ground limestone (calcium carbonate), they are obviously not identical products. Here, we explore some of the differences between the two, using one versus the other, and why you might choose one over the other.
The first and primary difference is found in the molecular structure. Quicklime is calcium oxide, and Hydrated Lime is calcium hydroxide.
The two products also look different. Quicklime will typically appear as a more dense, BB-like product, and may be dull-white or grayer in color. Hydrated Lime is a bright white, lighter, and more ‘fluffy’ product.
If you’ve ever wondered where you can buy quicklime, you’ve come to the right place! Quicklime, also known as calcium oxide, is an alkaline chemical compound with many uses across different industries. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about purchasing quicklime for your needs.
What is Quicklime Used For?
Before jumping into where to buy quicklime, it’s helpful to understand what it’s used for. Quicklime has three primary applications:
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Construction – Quicklime is added to soil to improve stability and durability. It’s commonly used for road construction, building foundations, and land reclamation projects.
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Water Treatment – Quicklime removes impurities and softens water in both drinking water and wastewater treatment applications.
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Industrial – Steel manufacturers use quicklime to remove impurities It’s also used in flue gas treatment
Knowing the purpose will help determine the quantity and quality needed.
Where to Purchase Quicklime
Now that you know what quicklime is used for, where can you buy it? Here are some options:
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Online – Various chemical supply companies sell quicklime online. This offers convenience but restricted quantities.
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Local Suppliers – Check with construction material and industrial suppliers in your area. You can often source larger quantities locally.
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Direct from Manufacturers – Larger buyers may want to purchase direct from industrial quicklime producers. This offers bulk pricing and customization.
Key Factors When Buying Quicklime
Keep these key considerations in mind when buying quicklime for your needs:
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Quality – The calcium oxide content of quicklime determines its effectiveness. Aim for 90% purity or higher.
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Sizing – Quicklime comes in a range of sizes for different applications, Finer sizing works best where fast reaction time is needed
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Quantity – Assess how much you need for your project Buying in bulk often provides better pricing
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Delivery – Factor in how the quicklime will be delivered to your facility or project site.
Safety Tips for Handling Quicklime
While extremely useful, quicklime can irritate skin and eyes if handled improperly. Follow these tips for safe use:
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Wear gloves, safety goggles, and protective clothing when handling. Avoid direct skin contact.
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Work in well-ventilated areas and use a respirator as needed to avoid breathing dust.
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Store quicklime away from moisture to prevent uncontrolled reactions.
Following basic safety protocols allows you to use this versatile chemical effectively.
Ready to Buy Quicklime?
Now that you know where you can source quicklime and what to look for when purchasing, you’re ready to buy this essential chemical compound. Choosing the right quantity, quality, and supplier will ensure you get the quicklime you need for your specific application. Handle it properly and it can improve construction materials, water purity, and industrial processes.
Production: Quick vs Hydrated
Limestone is a type of sedimentary rock. In its raw form, it is calcium carbonate. The first step in the production process for either product is the extraction of limestone from quarries and mines. Then, the limestone is crushed, screened, and washed. By heating this crushed limestone to a high temperature, carbon dioxide is released, and calcium oxide (Quicklime) is left. To make Hydrated Lime, the production process is taken a step further, and the product is then quenched with water. This is called “slaking”, and is done in a controlled way since it does produce an exothermic reaction (it gets hot!).
3. Different types of Lime
FAQ
What is another name for quicklime?
Calcium oxide (formula: CaO), commonly known as quicklime or burnt lime, is a widely used chemical compound. It is a white, caustic, alkaline, crystalline solid at room temperature.
What is quicklime used for?
Quicklime is used in a wide variety of applications, including the manufacture of iron and steel, the manufacture of paper and pulp, the treatment of water and flue gases and the mining industry. In the basic oxygen steelmaking (BOS) process, quicklime is known to have very crucial applications.
Is quicklime the same as garden lime?
Burnt lime (calcium oxide)
Also known as quicklime, burnt lime is derived by heating limestone to drive off carbon dioxide. It is more concentrated and caustic than agricultural lime and unpleasant to handle, so is rarely used in agriculture.