calciumacetat

Calcium acetate is the calcium salt of acetic acid, with the chemical formula Ca(C2H3O2)2. It is typically encountered as a white, crystalline solid and is soluble in water, where it forms a mildly basic solution. The compound can occur as hydrates, and the exact hydration state depends on temperature and storage conditions.

Calcium acetate is produced by neutralizing acetic acid with calcium carbonate or calcium hydroxide, or by other calcium-containing bases, followed by purification. In solution, the acetate ion acts as a weak base, contributing to the basic pH of the aqueous solution.

In medical practice, calcium acetate is used as a phosphate binder for patients with chronic kidney disease to limit the absorption of dietary phosphate from the gut. This helps manage hyperphosphatemia. It can also serve as a calcium supplement in certain dietary or pharmaceutical formulations, though other calcium salts are more common in standard supplements.

Industrially, calcium acetate has several roles. It is used in de-icing formulations as a less corrosive alternative to some chloride-based agents and as a precursor in the production of other acetates and specialty chemicals. In laboratories, it serves as a source of calcium and acetate in various organic synthesis and analytical applications.

Safety and handling: calcium acetate is of low to moderate acute toxicity. It can be irritating to skin, eyes, and the respiratory tract in dusty forms. It should be stored in a cool, dry place, kept away from acids, and handled with standard workplace precautions to avoid inhalation and contact with skin or eyes.