Calcium chloride (CaCl 2 ) is an ionic salt compound made of calcium and chlorine. Highly soluble in water, but remains solid at room temperature, and behaves as a typical ionic halide.
Calcium Chloride in Spirulina Production
In algae production, Calcium chloride is used as a bioavailable form of calcium. Calcium hydroxide (kalkwasser mix) or a calcium reactor can also be used to introduce calcium, but calcium chloride addition is the fastest known method and has a minimal impact on the pH.
An important role of CaCl 2 in algae production is controlling the culture’s acidity and increasing the water hardness. In concrete ponds, increasing the concentration of calcium in the water will reduce the dissolution of calcium compounds essential to the structure of concrete, thus prevent leakage and elongate the pond’s lifespan.
CaCl 2 can be produced directly from limestone, but large amounts are also produced as a by-product of the Solvay process. Because of its hygroscopic nature, it must be kept in tightly-sealed containers.
Although CaCl 2 is generally recognized as safe by the FDA, its use in organic crop production is generally prohibited under the US National Organic Program.
Other Uses for Calcium Chloride
Medicinal applications of CaCl 2 include replenishment of calcium levels, as an acid-producing diuretic, and as an antidote for magnesium poisoning.
In the food industry, CaCl 2 is used as a firming agent, mainly for canned vegetables, soybean and tofu products. It is also used to flavor pickles, slow down the freezing of Caramel and correct mineral deficiencies in beer brewing and cheesemaking. It is a permitted food additive in both the EU and USA, commonly identified as E509.
Calcium chloride is often used to melt heavy snow off paved roads, but can also be used for cooking, brine refrigeration, and dust control.
Hazards to Beware of with CaCl 2
CaCl 2 can irritate moist skin by desiccating it. Solid calcium chloride dissolves exothermically and can cause burns in the mouth and throat. Ingestion of concentrated solutions or solid products may cause gastrointestinal irritation, ulceration, and hypercalcemia, which is a state indicating high calcium levels in the blood serum.
Where to Buy CaCl 2
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