kalkkimateriaalit

Kalkkimateriaalit comprise a group of building and industrial materials derived primarily from calcium carbonate. The most common raw material is limestone, which is a sedimentary rock rich in calcite. Other sources include chalk and marble.

The production of kalkkimateriaalit typically involves calcination, a process where calcium carbonate is heated to high temperatures. This process drives off carbon dioxide, transforming calcium carbonate into calcium oxide, also known as quicklime. Quicklime is a highly reactive substance that readily combines with water to form calcium hydroxide, or slaked lime. Both quicklime and slaked lime are fundamental components in various applications.

Kalkkimateriaalit are widely used in construction for mortars, plasters, and as a binder in cement. Their ability to absorb and release moisture helps regulate humidity and improve indoor air quality. In agriculture, they are applied to soil to neutralize acidity, a practice known as liming, thereby improving soil fertility for plant growth.

Industrially, kalkkimateriaalit serve as raw materials in the production of steel, glass, and paper. They are also used in water and flue gas treatment to remove impurities and pollutants. The versatility and widespread availability of calcium carbonate sources contribute to the enduring importance of kalkkimateriaalit across numerous sectors.