Calcium hydroxide, also known as slaked lime or hydrated lime, is a widely used chemical compound with various applications in industries ranging from construction to food processing. Understanding its safety profile is crucial for safe handling and usage. This comprehensive safety data sheet (SDS) provides detailed information on calcium hydroxide's hazards, handling precautions, and emergency response procedures.
What is Calcium Hydroxide?
Calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)₂) is a white crystalline powder that is slightly soluble in water. Its primary hazard lies in its strong alkaline nature, causing irritation and burns upon contact with skin, eyes, or mucous membranes. It's important to note that the severity of these effects depends on the concentration and duration of exposure.
Physical and Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula: Ca(OH)₂
- Molar Mass: 74.09 g/mol
- Appearance: White powder
- Odor: Odorless
- Solubility: Slightly soluble in water
Hazards Identification
Health Hazards:
- Skin Contact: Causes irritation, redness, and burns. Prolonged or high-concentration exposure can lead to severe skin damage.
- Eye Contact: Can cause severe eye irritation, redness, pain, and potential corneal damage.
- Inhalation: Inhalation of dust can irritate the respiratory tract, causing coughing, sneezing, and shortness of breath. High concentrations may cause more severe respiratory problems.
- Ingestion: Ingestion can cause burns to the mouth, throat, and esophagus, and potentially damage internal organs. This is a serious health hazard.
Environmental Hazards:
While not typically considered a major environmental pollutant in its solid form, calcium hydroxide can increase the pH of water bodies if released in large quantities, potentially harming aquatic life. Proper disposal is crucial to minimize environmental impact.
First-Aid Measures
- Skin Contact: Immediately remove contaminated clothing and wash the affected area with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes. Seek medical attention if irritation persists.
- Eye Contact: Immediately flush the eyes with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes, lifting the eyelids occasionally. Seek immediate medical attention.
- Inhalation: Remove the person to fresh air. If breathing is difficult, administer oxygen. Seek medical attention if symptoms persist.
- Ingestion: Do NOT induce vomiting. Rinse the mouth with water and seek immediate medical attention.
Handling and Storage
- Handling: Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including gloves, eye protection, and a dust mask, when handling calcium hydroxide. Avoid generating dust. Ensure adequate ventilation in the work area.
- Storage: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from incompatible materials such as acids. Keep containers tightly closed.
Exposure Controls/Personal Protection
- Engineering Controls: Use local exhaust ventilation or other engineering controls to minimize dust generation.
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Use appropriate PPE, including gloves (e.g., nitrile or neoprene), safety glasses or goggles, and a respirator (e.g., N95 or higher) when handling dust. Protective clothing is recommended for prolonged or high-concentration exposure.
Physical and Chemical Properties (Expanded)
- Melting Point: 580 °C (1076 °F) (decomposes)
- Boiling Point: Not applicable (decomposes)
- Density: 2.211 g/cm³
- pH: Highly alkaline (a saturated solution has a pH of around 12.4)
Stability and Reactivity
- Stability: Stable under normal conditions.
- Incompatibilities: Reacts violently with acids, producing heat and potentially hazardous gases. Avoid contact with strong oxidizing agents.
- Hazardous Decomposition Products: May release oxides of calcium upon heating to high temperatures.
Toxicological Information
Calcium hydroxide's toxicity is primarily related to its corrosive properties. Ingestion can cause severe burns and internal damage. Prolonged skin contact can lead to skin irritation and burns. Inhalation of dust can irritate the respiratory system.
What are the long-term health effects of exposure to calcium hydroxide?
Long-term exposure to calcium hydroxide dust can lead to chronic respiratory problems, such as bronchitis or asthma. Repeated skin exposure can cause dermatitis and other skin conditions.
Is calcium hydroxide flammable?
No, calcium hydroxide is not flammable.
What are the first aid measures for ingestion of calcium hydroxide?
Do NOT induce vomiting. Immediately rinse the mouth with water and seek immediate medical attention.
What are the environmental concerns related to calcium hydroxide?
Improper disposal can lead to increased alkalinity in water bodies, harming aquatic life. Disposal should follow local regulations.
What are the safety precautions when working with calcium hydroxide?
Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including gloves, eye protection, and a respirator. Ensure adequate ventilation and avoid generating dust. Follow proper handling and storage procedures.
This safety data sheet provides general information. Always consult the specific SDS provided by your supplier for the most accurate and up-to-date information relevant to the specific product you are using. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice. If you have any concerns about your health or safety, contact a qualified medical professional.
