Oxidecalcium

Oxidecalcium, also known as calcium oxide or quicklime, is a chemical compound with the formula CaO. It is a white, caustic, crystalline solid that is produced by heating calcium carbonate (limestone) in a kiln. This process, called calcination, drives off carbon dioxide, leaving behind the oxide. Oxidecalcium is highly reactive and readily absorbs moisture and carbon dioxide from the air, forming calcium hydroxide (slaked lime) and calcium carbonate, respectively.

The primary uses of oxidecalcium are in the construction industry, where it is a key component of mortar, plaster, and cement. Its ability to react with water to form calcium hydroxide, which then hardens over time, makes it an effective binder. Additionally, oxidecalcium is used in steelmaking to remove impurities. It also finds applications in agriculture as a soil conditioner to neutralize acidity and in the chemical industry as a raw material for the production of other calcium compounds. Due to its caustic nature, it requires careful handling to avoid skin and eye irritation.