Calcium Carbonate CAS No. 471-34-1

Product Description

Calcium carbonate is a versatile and abundant chemical compound found in nature as rocks like limestone, chalk, and marble, and as the main component of shells, pearls, and eggshells. It is a white, odorless powder or crystalline solid with poor solubility in water but reacts with acids to release carbon dioxide. Industrially, it is used extensively in construction as a key ingredient in cement, concrete, and mortar, and as a filler in asphalt, paints, and adhesives. In the glass and metallurgy industries, it serves as a flux and purifying agent. In the paper industry, it improves brightness and opacity, while in plastics and rubber, it enhances rigidity. Medically, calcium carbonate is a dietary calcium supplement and an antacid for heartburn relief. It is also used as a food additive (E170) for acidity regulation and coloring. Environmentally, it neutralizes acidic soils and removes sulfur dioxide from flue gases. While generally safe, inhalation of fine dust can cause respiratory irritation, and prolonged exposure may require protective measures.

Product Use & Characteristics

Molecular Formula: CCaO₃
Molecular Weight: 100.09 g/mol
IUPAC Name: Calcium carbonate

Properties

Physical Properties:

• Appearance: White powder or colorless crystals

• Density: 2.71 g/cm³

• Melting Point: Varies by crystalline form (e.g., calcite melts at 1339°C, aragonite at 825°C)

• Solubility in Water: Poorly soluble (~0.0014 g/100 mL at 25°C)

• pH (slurry in water): ~9–10

Chemical Properties:

• Reacts with acids to produce a calcium salt, water, and carbon dioxide:

  CaCO3 (s)+2HCl(aq)→CaCl2 (aq)+H2 O(l)+CO2 (g)

• Decomposes into calcium oxide (CaO) and carbon dioxide (CO₂) at high temperatures (above 840°C):

  CaCO3 (s)→CaO(s)+CO2 (g)

Natural Occurrence

Minerals & Rocks:

• Calcite (most stable form)

• Aragonite (found in shells)

• Vaterite (rare)

• Limestone, chalk, marble (geological forms)

Biological Sources:

• Eggshells

• Seashells

• Coral

• Pearls

Uses

Medical Uses:

• Antacid: Relieves heartburn, indigestion, and acid reflux by neutralizing stomach acid (e.g., Tums, Rolaids)

• Calcium Supplement: Prevents or treats low calcium levels (hypocalcemia), osteoporosis, osteomalacia, hypoparathyroidism

• Phosphate Binder: Binds excess phosphate in the diet for individuals with chronic kidney disease

• Preeclampsia Prevention: Reduces the risk of preeclampsia during pregnancy

Industrial and Other Uses:

• Construction:

  • Cement, concrete, mortar

  • Decorative stone (marble)

• Agriculture:

  • Soil conditioner to neutralize acidic soils (agricultural lime)

• Paper, Plastics, and Paints:

  • Filler and coating pigment to enhance opacity, smoothness, reduce production costs

• Food Additive:

  • Whitening agent (E170)

  • Nutritional additive in cereals and dairy products

• Personal Care Products:

  • Mild abrasive and whitening agent in toothpaste

• Environmental Applications:

  • Flue gas desulfurization (removes SO₂ from emissions)

  • Water treatment to adjust pH

Health & Safety

• General Safety: Generally non-toxic and safe for use in food and medicine

• Potential Side Effects:

  • Common: Constipation, gas, bloating, upset stomach, nausea, vomiting, decreased appetite

  • Serious (rare): Muscle weakness, bone pain, confusion, increased thirst and urination, kidney problems (including kidney stones)

• Important Considerations:

  • Follow dosage instructions

  • Consult a doctor or pharmacist, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications

  • Not recommended for more than two weeks as an antacid unless directed by a doctor

Synthesis Methods

• Ca²⁺–CO₃²⁻ Reaction System: Mixing calcium salts (e.g., CaCl₂) with carbonate salts (e.g., Na₂CO₃) to initiate precipitation

• Solid–Liquid–Gas Carbonation: Carbonation of Ca(OH)₂ with CO₂ gas

• Water-in-Oil Reverse Emulsion: Using reverse emulsions to control synthesis

• Biomineralization: Mimicking biological processes to control polymorphism, morphology, and sizes of CaCO₃ particles

Why us!

Qingdao Sigma Chemical Co., Ltd., established in January 2017 and headquartered in Qingdao, China, is a reliable chemical supplier. Specializing in pharmaceuticals, biochemical intermediates, and research chemicals, the company offers a diverse product portfolio, including peptides (e.g., Tirzepatide, Semaglutide), nootropics, veterinary products, and APIs, often marketed with ≥99% purity and COA certification. We provides R&D, custom synthesis, and contract manufacturing services at various scales, while claiming a global export presence across 100+ countries. With international warehouses in the USA, Europe, Australia, and Canada, Qingdao Sigma Chemical also facilitates drop-shipping and reshipments, positioning itself as a key supplier for laboratory and research applications.