Calcium Nitrate

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Calcium Nitrate is a highly soluble, white crystalline salt composed of calcium and nitrate ions. It is commonly available as a tetrahydrate (Ca(NO₃)₂·4H₂O). Known for its excellent solubility in water, calcium nitrate is widely used as a fertilizer providing both calcium and nitrogen to plants. It improves soil structure, enhances nutrient uptake, and prevents disorders such as blossom-end rot in fruits. Beyond agriculture, calcium nitrate serves in wastewater treatment, concrete acceleration, and industrial chemical processes.

Description

Primary Uses 

  1. Agriculture & Horticulture

    • Used extensively as a water-soluble fertilizer supplying readily available calcium and nitrate nitrogen.

    • Prevents calcium deficiency disorders in crops such as tomatoes, peppers, apples, and strawberries.

    • Improves soil pH and structure, reducing soil acidity.

    • Supports rapid plant growth and higher crop yields.

  2. Water Treatment

    • Used as a nitrification inhibitor to prevent odor and corrosion caused by hydrogen sulfide in wastewater systems.

    • Controls nitrogen cycling and reduces ammonia emissions in sewage treatment plants.

  3. Concrete & Construction

    • Acts as a set accelerator and corrosion inhibitor in concrete mixes.

    • Enhances early strength development and durability of concrete.

Secondary Uses 

  1. Chemical Industry

    • Used as a raw material in the manufacture of explosives, pyrotechnics, and other nitrate salts.

  2. Environmental Applications

    • Applied in environmental remediation to reduce nitrogen oxide emissions and improve soil remediation.

  3. Cold Packs

    • Occasionally used in instant cold packs due to its endothermic dissolution properties.

 

PRODUCT KEY FEATURES

Basic Identification Attributes

  • Chemical Name (IUPAC): Calcium dinitrate tetrahydrate

  • Common/Trade Name: Calcium Nitrate

  • CAS Number: 13477-34-4

  • HS Code: 3105.30.00

  • Molecular Formula: Ca(NO₃)₂ · 4H₂O

  • Synonyms:

    • Calcium nitrate tetrahydrate

    • Norwegian saltpeter

    • Calcium dinitrate

    • Lime nitrate

2. Physical & Chemical Properties

  • Physical State: Crystalline granules or powder

  • Color & Odor: White; odorless

  • Melting Point: Decomposes before melting at ~40°C (loss of water)

  • Boiling Point: Not applicable (decomposes)

  • Density: Approx. 1.9 g/cm³ (anhydrous)

  • Solubility: Highly soluble in water (~121 g/100 mL at 20°C); insoluble in alcohol

  • pH: Slightly acidic to neutral in aqueous solution (pH ~5.5–6.5)

  • Stability: Hygroscopic; stable under normal conditions when stored dry

3. Safety & Hazard Attributes

  • Hazard Class (GHS): Oxidizing solid (Category 3), may intensify fire

  • NFPA Ratings:

    • Health: 2

    • Flammability: 0

    • Reactivity: 1

  • Exposure Limits: No specific OSHA PEL; avoid inhalation of dust

  • Toxicity: Low acute toxicity; ingestion may cause gastrointestinal irritation

  • Reactivity: Strong oxidizer; reacts with combustible materials and reducing agents

4. Storage & Handling Attributes

  • Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from incompatible substances such as organic materials and acids

  • Container Type: Sealed plastic or polyethylene bags, drums, or bulk containers

  • Shelf Life: Typically 2 years if stored properly

  • Special Handling: Avoid dust formation and contact with combustibles; use PPE during handling

5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes

  • FDA Status: Approved for use in fertilizers; not for direct food use

  • Pharmacopoeia Compliance: Not applicable

  • Transportation: Classified as an oxidizer under hazardous materials regulations (UN number 1454)

  • Waste Disposal: Dispose in accordance with local regulations for oxidizing substances

6. Environmental & Health Impact

  • Ecotoxicity: May cause oxygen depletion in water bodies if released in large amounts

  • Persistence: Water-soluble and mobile in the environment

  • Bioaccumulation: Not expected

  • Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: Not classified as carcinogenic or mutagenic

  • Biodegradability: Not applicable (inorganic salt)

SAFETY HANDLING PRECAUTIONS

Safety Handling Precautions

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

  • Gloves

  • Safety goggles

  • Dust mask or respirator (if dust is generated)

  • Protective clothing

Handling Measures:

  • Avoid generating dust

  • Use in well-ventilated areas

  • Keep away from flammable materials and reducing agents

Storage Measures:

  • Keep containers tightly closed

  • Store away from heat sources, acids, and organic substances

  • Protect from moisture

Hygiene Practices:

  • Wash hands after handling

  • Do not eat, drink, or smoke in handling areas

 

First Aid Measures

  • Inhalation: Move to fresh air; seek medical attention if breathing difficulties occur

  • Skin Contact: Wash with soap and water; seek medical advice if irritation develops

  • Eye Contact: Rinse immediately with water for 15 minutes; seek medical attention if irritation persists

  • Ingestion: Rinse mouth; do not induce vomiting; seek medical attention if large amounts are ingested

 

Firefighting Measures

  • Fire Hazards: Supports combustion; strong oxidizer

  • Extinguishing Media: Use water spray, foam, or dry chemical extinguishers

  • Special Precautions: Firefighters should wear full protective equipment and SCBA

  • Decomposition Products: May release nitrogen oxides, calcium oxide, and toxic fumes when heated