Calcium Carbonate Extra Pure
Calcium Carbonate Extra Pure is a high-purity, fine white powder widely used in laboratory settings as a buffering agent, a source of calcium ions, and a standard for acid-base titrations. It plays a key role in chemical analysis, gravimetric studies, and as a neutralizing agent in various reactions. In educational and research laboratories, it is also used to demonstrate decomposition reactions upon heating, releasing carbon dioxide and forming calcium oxide. The extra pure grade guarantees minimal impurities, making it suitable for precise analytical applications. It should be stored in tightly sealed containers in a dry environment to maintain its stability and reactivity.
Primary Uses
Standard for Acid-Base Titrations
Commonly used as a primary standard or solid reactant in acid-base titration demonstrations involving hydrochloric acid:
CaCO3+2HCl→CaCl2+H2O+CO2\text{CaCO}_3 + 2\text{HCl} \rightarrow \text{CaCl}_2 + \text{H}_2\text{O} + \text{CO}_2CaCO3+2HCl→CaCl2+H2O+CO2
CO₂ Generation for Gas Collection Experiments
Reacted with acids (like HCl) to produce carbon dioxide gas for gas collection, reaction rate studies, or limewater tests.
Demonstration of Thermal Decomposition
Heated in high-temperature setups to demonstrate decomposition of carbonates:
CaCO3→ΔCaO+CO2\text{CaCO}_3 \xrightarrow{\Delta} \text{CaO} + \text{CO}_2CaCO3ΔCaO+CO2
Useful for studying metal reactivity, thermogravimetric analysis, and mass loss upon heating.
Secondary Uses
Buffering Agent
Occasionally used to stabilize pH in controlled experiments involving acidic reactions.
Component in Simulated Biological Systems
Mimics natural biomineralization in bone or shell modeling in educational labs.
Neutralization Reactions
Used to study neutralization of acids and observe effervescence, often in teaching or classroom demonstrations.
Basic Identification Attributes
Chemical Name: Calcium Carbonate
Chemical Formula: CaCO₃
CAS Number: 471-34-1
HS Code: 2836.50.00
Grade: Extra Pure (Laboratory Grade)
Synonyms: Precipitated Calcium Carbonate, Calcite, Marble Powder, Limestone
2. Physical & Chemical Properties
Appearance: White, odorless, fine powder or crystalline solid
Odor: Odorless
Molar Mass: 100.09 g/mol
Melting Point: Decomposes at ~825 °C (to calcium oxide and CO₂)
Solubility:
Practically insoluble in water
Soluble in dilute acids with effervescence
Density: ~2.71 g/cm³
pH (saturated solution): ~9.4
Stability: Stable under normal laboratory conditions
3. Safety & Hazard Attributes
GHS Classification: Not classified as hazardous
GHS Pictograms: ⚠️ (only if in large amounts as dust)
Hazard Statements:
May cause mild mechanical irritation via dust inhalation
NFPA Ratings:
Health: 1
Flammability: 0
Reactivity: 0
4. Storage & Handling Attributes
Storage Conditions:
Store in a tightly sealed container in a dry area
Avoid moisture and strong acids
Packaging: HDPE jars, plastic-lined fiber drums, or moisture-proof containers
Handling Precautions:
Avoid inhaling dust
Use appropriate PPE (dust mask, goggles, gloves) when handling bulk quantities
5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
Transport Classification (UN): Not regulated as a hazardous material
Disposal:
Can typically be disposed of as non-hazardous waste
Follow institutional or local regulations for disposal of lab reagents
6. Environmental & Health Impact
Toxicity:
Low toxicity
May cause respiratory irritation in powder form
Ecotoxicity:
Minimal impact on aquatic or terrestrial life
Biodegradability: Not applicable – inorganic mineral
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
Wear safety goggles, dust mask or respirator, gloves, and lab coat.
Handling:
Avoid generating or inhaling dust.
Use in a well-ventilated area or under a fume hood.
Storage:
Store in a tightly closed container in a cool, dry location.
Keep away from acids (e.g., hydrochloric acid) as it may react to produce CO₂ gas.
Incompatibilities:
Strong acids, ammonium salts, aluminum.
FIRST AID MEASURES
Inhalation:
Move the person to fresh air.
Seek medical attention if respiratory irritation persists.
Skin Contact:
Wash skin with plenty of water and soap.
Remove contaminated clothing.
Eye Contact:
Rinse immediately with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes.
Seek medical attention if irritation continues.
Ingestion:
Rinse mouth with water.
Non-toxic in small quantities, but seek medical advice if large amounts are ingested.
FIRE FIGHTING MEASURES
Flammability:
Not flammable and does not support combustion.
Extinguishing Media:
Use extinguishing media appropriate for surrounding materials (e.g., CO₂, dry chemical, water spray).
Hazardous Combustion Products:
Decomposes at very high temperatures to release carbon dioxide (CO₂).
Firefighting Instructions:
Wear protective equipment and self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) if exposure to dust or decomposition products is possible.