When sourcing lime for industrial applications, buyers often face a key question: What is the difference between quicklime and hydrated lime? While both materials are derived from limestone, they serve different purposes and possess distinct properties. Choosing the right one depends on your specific needs in terms of reactivity, handling, and application.
Quicklime
Hydrated lime
What Is Quicklime?
Quicklime, or Calcium Oxide (CaO), is produced by heating limestone at high temperatures in a process called calcination. This process removes carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the stone, leaving behind a highly reactive substance.
Key characteristics of quicklime:
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Chemical formula: CaO
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Highly reactive, especially with water
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Generates significant heat during hydration
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Requires careful handling and storage
Typical applications:
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Metallurgical processes (removal of impurities in steel and iron)
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Flue gas treatment
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Soil stabilization and road construction
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Chemical manufacturing
What Is Hydrated Lime?
Hydrated Lime, also known as Calcium Hydroxide (Ca(OH)₂), is produced by adding water to quicklime in a controlled reaction known as slaking. The result is a dry, fine powder that is easier and safer to handle than quicklime.
Key characteristics of hydrated lime:
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Chemical formula: Ca(OH)₂
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Pre-reacted with water, no heat release during use
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Lower reactivity compared to quicklime
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Safer to transport and store
Typical applications:
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Water treatment and pH adjustment
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Wastewater and flue gas treatment
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Food processing and sugar refining
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Construction and chemical industries
Which Lime Should You Choose?
The best choice depends on your intended use:
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Choose Quicklime (CaO) if your application demands high reactivity, such as in metallurgy or high-temperature chemical reactions.
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Choose Hydrated Lime (Ca(OH)₂) if you require a safer, more convenient lime product for water treatment, flue gas treatment, or pH control.
Source High-Quality Lime Directly from Vietnam
Our company supplies both quicklime and hydrated lime directly from our factory in Ha Nam, Vietnam. We ensure consistent quality, flexible packing options, and stable monthly output to meet international demand.
VIET NAM TECHNOLOGY MINERALS JSC – SHC GROUP
Ms. Jade Vu – International Sales Manager
WhatsApp: +84 90235 9898
Email: export6@shcgroup.vn