Calcium Metal Extra Pure
Calcium Metal Extra Pure is a high-purity, silvery-white alkaline earth metal used extensively in laboratory settings for its strong reducing properties and high reactivity. It plays a vital role in metallothermic reductions, particularly for extracting reactive metals like uranium, thorium, and zirconium from their oxides or halides. In controlled experiments, it is also used to generate hydrogen gas when reacted with water and to study exothermic redox reactions. The extra pure grade ensures low impurity levels, which is critical for precise synthesis and analytical work. Due to its high reactivity with air and moisture, it must be handled under inert conditions and stored in airtight containers or under oil to prevent oxidation.
Primary Uses
Strong Reducing Agent in Organic & Inorganic Synthesis
Calcium metal is widely used in reduction reactions, such as the reduction of metal oxides or halides to their elemental forms.
Dehydration of Solvents and Gases
Used to dry alcohols, ethers, and hydrocarbons by reacting with residual moisture due to its strong reactivity with water.
Study of Alkaline Earth Metal Properties
Used in educational demonstrations to show typical reactions of Group 2 metals, especially reactions with water, acids, and oxygen.
Production of Calcium Compounds in Situ
Reacted with acids to generate calcium salts or with water to produce calcium hydroxide and hydrogen gas.
Secondary Uses
Alloy Preparation in Metallurgical Labs
Occasionally used in lab-scale metallurgical processes or in alloy formulation for experimental purposes.
Getter Material in High-Vacuum Systems
Acts as a getter to trap oxygen, nitrogen, and other reactive gases in vacuum tubes or controlled-atmosphere experiments.
Spectroscopic and Combustion Studies
Used in flame tests to demonstrate characteristic orange-red coloration, or in combustion reactions to study metal reactivity.
Electrochemical Research
Studied for its potential role in metal-ion batteries or ionic conduction in advanced materials research.
. Basic Identification Attributes
Chemical Name: Calcium
Chemical Formula: Ca
CAS Number: 7440-70-2
HS Code: 2805.12.00
Grade: Extra Pure (Laboratory Grade)
Synonyms: Metallic Calcium, Calcium Granules
2. Physical & Chemical Properties
Appearance: Silvery-white, soft metal (often in turnings or granules)
Odor: Odorless
Molar Mass: 40.08 g/mol
Melting Point: 842 °C
Boiling Point: 1,484 °C
Density: 1.55 g/cm³
Solubility: Reacts with water; not soluble in most solvents
Reactivity: Highly reactive, especially with water and acids
Flammability: Combustible in air; may ignite spontaneously when finely divided
3. Safety & Hazard Attributes
GHS Classification:
Water-reactive Substance (Category 1)
Skin Corrosive (Category 1)
Hazard Statements:
H260: In contact with water releases flammable gases which may ignite spontaneously
H314: Causes severe skin burns and eye damage
Precautionary Statements:
Keep away from moisture
Handle only under inert atmosphere (e.g., argon) if purity must be preserved
Wear protective gloves, eye protection, and lab coat
4. Storage & Handling Attributes
Storage Conditions:
Store in tightly sealed containers under mineral oil or inert gas
Keep away from moisture, acids, and oxidizers
Packaging: Sealed glass or metal containers under inert liquid or vacuum
Handling Precautions:
Use forceps or gloves
Do not handle with wet hands
Avoid contact with water and humid air
5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
Transport Classification:
UN No.: 1401
Class: 4.3 (Substances which, in contact with water, emit flammable gases)
Packaging Group: I
Disposal Considerations:
Neutralize slowly with isopropanol under controlled conditions
Dispose according to local hazardous waste regulations
6. Environmental & Health Impact
Toxicity:
Can cause thermal and chemical burns on contact
Inhalation of dust or fumes can irritate respiratory tract
Ecotoxicity:
Reacts with water, releasing alkaline calcium hydroxide
May alter pH and disrupt aquatic life
Biodegradability: Not applicable (elemental metal)
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
Wear chemical splash goggles, flame-resistant lab coat, and gloves (non-reactive, like nitrile).
Use a face shield and fume hood when handling large amounts or open flames.
Handling:
Handle under inert atmosphere (argon or nitrogen) if possible, or in mineral oil to prevent oxidation.
Avoid contact with water, moisture, or air, as calcium reacts vigorously, producing heat and hydrogen gas (flammable).
Use non-sparking tools and grounding when transferring.
Storage:
Store in tightly sealed containers, under oil, dry argon, or in a desiccator.
Keep away from water, acids, and oxidizers.
FIRST AID MEASURES
Inhalation (if dust is generated):
Move to fresh air immediately.
Seek medical attention if symptoms like coughing or shortness of breath occur.
Skin Contact:
Brush off any particles.
Wash the area thoroughly with soap and water.
Do not apply water directly to unreacted metal on skin — may cause burns due to reaction.
Eye Contact:
Rinse immediately with copious water for 15+ minutes.
Keep eyelids open and seek immediate medical attention.
Ingestion:
Do not induce vomiting.
Rinse mouth with water.
Seek immediate emergency medical help — reacts with water in the digestive tract.
FIRE FIGHTING MEASURES
Flammability:
Highly flammable in powder or granule form.
Reacts with water to release flammable hydrogen gas.
Extinguishing Media:
Use Class D dry powder extinguishers (like graphite, soda ash, or dry sand).
Do NOT use water, CO₂, or foam — these may cause explosive reactions.
Hazardous Combustion Products:
Calcium oxide fumes, hydrogen gas, and intense heat.
Firefighter Protection:
Use self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) and full-body protective gear.
Approach from upwind and avoid contact with water-based extinguishers.