Calcium Granular Extra Pure
Calcium Granular Extra Pure consists of high-purity metallic calcium in granulated form, primarily used in laboratory environments for chemical synthesis, metallothermic reduction reactions, and moisture-sensitive experiments. It serves as a strong reducing agent, especially in the preparation of metals from their oxides and halides. Due to its high reactivity with water and oxygen, it is also used in experiments involving hydrogen generation and exothermic metal-acid reactions. The extra pure grade ensures minimal contamination, essential for precise analytical and preparative applications. It should be stored in sealed, inert-atmosphere containers or under mineral oil to prevent oxidation and preserve its reactivity.
Primary Uses
Reductant in Metallothermic Reactions
Used as a strong reducing agent in preparing metals from oxides or halides (e.g., uranium, thorium), particularly in metallurgical research or pyrometallurgy studies.
Generation of Hydrogen Gas
Reacts readily with water or dilute acids (e.g., HCl) to produce calcium ions and hydrogen gas, ideal for controlled gas generation demonstrations.
Educational Demonstration of Alkaline Earth Reactivity
Helps compare reactivity across Group 2 elements (alkaline earth metals) in school and college-level chemistry classes.
Secondary Uses
Source of Calcium Ions in Non-Aqueous Systems
Occasionally used in non-aqueous solvent systems or high-purity environments where hydrated salts are unsuitable.
Synthesis of Organocalcium Compounds
Acts as a base or nucleophile precursor in the preparation of organocalcium intermediates in experimental organometallic chemistry.
Deoxidizer in Laboratory-Scale Alloy Production
Used in small-scale alloy synthesis as a deoxidizing additive, particularly in experimental materials science.
Basic Identification Attributes
Chemical Name: Calcium (Granular)
Chemical Formula: Ca
CAS Number: 7440-70-2
HS Code: 2805.12.00
Grade: Extra Pure (Laboratory Grade)
Synonyms: Metallic Calcium, Calcium metal granules, Granular calcium
2. Physical & Chemical Properties
Appearance: Greyish to silvery-white metallic granules
Odor: Odorless
Molar Mass: 40.08 g/mol
Melting Point: ~842 °C
Boiling Point: ~1,484 °C
Solubility:
Insoluble in water
Reacts with water to form calcium hydroxide and hydrogen gas
Density: ~1.55 g/cm³
Reactivity: Highly reactive, especially with water, acids, and moisture in the air
3. Safety & Hazard Attributes
GHS Classification:
Water-reactive (Category 1)
Skin Irritant (Category 2)
Hazard Statements:
H260: In contact with water releases flammable gases
H315: Causes skin irritation
Precautionary Statements:
Keep away from water and moisture
Handle under inert atmosphere or dry conditions
Avoid contact with skin and eyes
NFPA Ratings:
Health: 2
Flammability: 1
Reactivity: 2
4. Storage & Handling Attributes
Storage Conditions:
Store in tightly sealed containers under dry inert gas (e.g., argon)
Keep away from water, acids, and humid air
Packaging: Airtight glass jars, vacuum-sealed bags, or containers flushed with inert gas
Handling Precautions:
Use tweezers or forceps
Avoid generating dust
Do not handle with wet hands or in damp conditions
5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
Transport Classification (UN):
UN1401 – Calcium (classified as dangerous when shipped in reactive form)
Disposal Considerations:
React with isopropanol to neutralize slowly
Do not dispose of in water systems
Follow local hazardous waste guidelines
6. Environmental & Health Impact
Toxicity:
Low systemic toxicity
Reacts strongly with water to release hydrogen – explosion risk
Ecotoxicity:
Reactive metal; may alter water pH and harm aquatic life if improperly disposed
Biodegradability: Not applicable (elemental metal)
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
Wear a lab coat, chemical-resistant gloves, and safety goggles.
Use a face shield when handling large amounts.
Handling:
Handle under an inert atmosphere (e.g., argon) or in a dry box when possible.
Keep away from moisture, water, acids, and oxidizers.
Avoid creating dust or allowing the material to contact skin.
Storage:
Store in tightly sealed containers in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area.
Protect from humidity, water, and air exposure — highly reactive with water.
FIRST AID MEASURES
Inhalation:
Move to fresh air.
If breathing is difficult, administer oxygen.
Seek medical attention if symptoms persist.
Skin Contact:
Brush off any loose particles.
Rinse skin with plenty of water.
Remove contaminated clothing and get medical help if irritation occurs.
Eye Contact:
Immediately flush eyes with copious water for at least 15 minutes.
Seek immediate medical attention.
Ingestion:
Do not induce vomiting.
Rinse mouth with water and seek immediate medical attention.
May release hydrogen gas in the stomach.
FIRE FIGHTING MEASURES
Flammability:
Flammable solid, especially when finely divided.
Reacts with water to produce flammable hydrogen gas and heat.
Extinguishing Media:
Use Class D dry powder extinguishers (e.g., dry sand, graphite powder).
Do NOT use water, foam, or CO₂ — may cause explosive reactions.
Hazardous Combustion Products:
Calcium oxide (CaO) and hydrogen gas (Hâ‚‚).
Firefighter Protection:
Wear self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) and full chemical protective gear.
Fight fire from a safe distance and avoid dust dispersion.