Chemical and Physical Properties
Chemical Formula: CaC₂
Molar Mass: 64.099 g/mol
Appearance: Grayish-black solid (crystalline in pure form)
Density: 2.22 g/cm³
Melting Point: 2,160°C (3,920°F)
Major Applications
Acetylene Production
Primary use: CaC₂ generates acetylene (C₂H₂), a fuel for welding/lighting and a precursor for plastics (e.g., PVC).
Steelmaking
Desulfurizing agent in iron/steel production to remove sulfur impurities.
Chemical Synthesis
Raw material for cyanamide, fertilizers, and synthetic resins.
Historical Uses
Early 20th-century lamps ("carbide lamps") for mining and vehicles.
Safety and Hazards
Moisture Sensitivity: Reacts explosively with water, releasing flammable acetylene.
Storage: Must be kept in airtight, dry containers.
Health Risks: Dust causes skin/eye irritation; acetylene gas is asphyxiating.
Transportation: Classified as a Dangerous Good (UN 1402).
Environmental Impact
Carbon Footprint: High energy consumption leads to CO₂ emissions (~1.9 tons CO₂/ton CaC₂).
Byproducts: Lime sludge (Ca(OH)₂) from acetylene production requires disposal.
Alternatives: Ethylene (from petroleum) is replacing acetylene in some applications.
Market and Future Outlook
Global Demand: Driven by steel and PVC industries (Asia-Pacific dominates production).
Challenges: Rising energy costs and environmental regulations.
Innovations: Research into cleaner production methods (e.g., plasma arc reactors).
Hot Tags: analysis of calcium carbide, China analysis of calcium carbide manufacturers, suppliers, factory, FeV 40 Dark, iron tungsten alloy Lump, Ferro vanadium Master Alloy 40%, Industrial Ferrovanadium 60%, Industrial Ferrovanadium 60 Dark, Iron Vanadium Alloy 40