kalciumkalciumszulfát

Kalciumkalciumszulfát, also known as calcium sulfate, is a chemical compound with the formula CaSO4. It is a white, crystalline solid that occurs naturally in a variety of mineral forms, including gypsum and anhydrite. Gypsum is a hydrated form of calcium sulfate, containing water molecules within its crystal structure, while anhydrite is the anhydrous form.

In its natural state, calcium sulfate is widely distributed in sedimentary rocks and evaporite deposits. It is also a common component of soil and can be found in the water of oceans and lakes. The solubility of calcium sulfate in water is relatively low, and it decreases as the temperature of the water increases.

Industrially, calcium sulfate is a significant commodity. Gypsum is primarily mined for its use in the production of plaster of Paris, a building material used for wall coatings, decorative elements, and medical casts. It is also a key ingredient in the manufacture of cement. Anhydrite, when mixed with water, also sets and hardens, finding applications as a flooring screed and in specialized cements.

Beyond construction, calcium sulfate has various other applications. It is used as a food additive (E516) to control acidity, firm foods, and as a nutrient supplement. In agriculture, it serves as a soil conditioner to improve soil structure and provide calcium and sulfur, essential plant nutrients. It also finds use in the pharmaceutical industry as an excipient in tablets and as a calcium supplement.