Calcium

Calcium is a metallic chemical element with the symbol Ca and CAS number 7440-70-2. It belongs to the alkaline earth metals group and has a molecular weight of 40.08 g/mol. Calcium is a reactive metal that readily reacts with water, making it classified as a Water-react. 2 substance under GHS classification. In its pure form, calcium appears as a silvery-white metal that tarnishes quickly when exposed to air and moisture.

Calcium is a soft, silvery-white metallic solid at room temperature with a density of 1.55 g/cm³. It has a melting point of 842°C and a boiling point of 1484°C. The metal is highly reactive, especially with water, producing calcium hydroxide and hydrogen gas. Calcium readily oxidizes in air, forming a protective oxide layer. It is insoluble in organic solvents but reacts vigorously with water and acids.

Calcium serves multiple industrial applications including steel production as a deoxidizer and desulfurizer, and in aluminum alloys manufacturing. It is used in the production of calcium compounds for various chemical processes, as a reducing agent in metallurgy, and in the manufacturing of calcium-based chemicals. Additionally, calcium finds applications in specialized batteries, nuclear reactor construction, and as a getter in vacuum tubes to remove trace gases.

Calcium must be handled with extreme caution due to its water-reactive nature (Water-react. 2 classification). Personnel should wear appropriate PPE including safety goggles, protective gloves, and lab coats. Work should be conducted in dry, well-ventilated areas away from water sources. The GHS02 pictogram indicates fire hazard, so ignition sources must be eliminated. Handle only with dry tools and avoid contact with moisture or humid air to prevent violent reactions.

Calcium must be stored in completely dry conditions, typically under inert atmosphere or mineral oil to prevent contact with moisture and oxygen. Storage areas should be cool, dry, and well-ventilated, away from water sources and incompatible materials like acids and oxidizing agents. Containers must be tightly sealed and moisture-proof. Fire suppression systems using water should be avoided in storage areas due to calcium's water-reactive properties.

Calcium contact requires immediate action due to its reactive nature. For skin contact, brush off any solid particles gently (do not use water initially), then flush with copious amounts of water and seek medical attention. For eye contact, rinse immediately with water for at least 15 minutes and get medical help. If ingested, do not induce vomiting and seek immediate medical attention. In case of fire, use dry sand or Class D fire extinguisher - never use water.

Calcium disposal must follow hazardous waste regulations due to its reactive properties. Small quantities can be carefully neutralized by trained personnel using appropriate methods under controlled conditions. Large quantities require disposal through licensed hazardous waste contractors. The waste is classified as dangerous goods and must be properly packaged, labeled, and transported according to ADR regulations. Never dispose of calcium in regular waste streams or water systems.

Calcium is classified under ADR Class 4.3 (substances which, in contact with water, emit flammable gases), Packing Group II. Transport requires specialized packaging that prevents moisture ingress, proper hazard labeling with Class 4.3 placards, and compliance with dangerous goods transport regulations. Vehicles must be equipped appropriately for hazardous materials transport, and drivers require proper training and certification for transporting water-reactive substances.

Calcium is regulated under various European frameworks including CLP Regulation for classification and labeling (Water-react. 2, Danger signal word, GHS02 pictogram). It falls under REACH registration requirements for chemical substances. Transport is governed by ADR regulations as Class 4.3 dangerous goods. Workplace exposure limits and safety measures are defined under occupational health regulations. The substance is not currently listed as SVHC under REACH authorization requirements.

Calcium is available through specialized chemical distributors across Europe, with OYSI being a reliable European supplier of technical-grade calcium. When sourcing calcium, ensure the supplier provides proper documentation including safety data sheets, certificates of analysis, and compliance with European regulations. Due to its hazardous nature and transport requirements, purchase only from established distributors experienced in handling water-reactive substances and dangerous goods logistics.