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.

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Category: Fertilizers Tags: Calcium nitrate, Colorless crystalline salt, Concrete setting accelerator, Fertilizer and agriculture, Hydroponics nutrient, Wastewater treatment

Description

Table of Contents

Calcium Nitrate

Primary Uses

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.
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.
Concrete & Construction
- Acts as a set accelerator and corrosion inhibitor in concrete mixes.
- Enhances early strength development and durability of concrete.

Secondary Uses

Chemical Industry
- Used as a raw material in the manufacture of explosives, pyrotechnics, and other nitrate salts.
Environmental Applications
- Applied in environmental remediation to reduce nitrogen oxide emissions and improve soil remediation.
Cold Packs
- Occasionally used in instant cold packs due to its endothermic dissolution properties.

KEY PRODUCT FEATURES

1. 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