Calcium dihypochlorite

CaCl2O2

calcium dihypochlorite

CAS7778-54-3
GHS03 Gefahrensymbol: Brandfördernd – Flamme über Kreis
GHS07 Gefahrensymbol: Gesundheitsschädlich/Reizend – Ausrufezeichen
GHS05 Gefahrensymbol: Ätzend – Ätzwirkung
GHS09 Gefahrensymbol: Umweltgefährlich – Umwelt
Danger

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Identification

CAS Number
7778-54-3
EC Number
231-908-7
UN Number
3485
Index Number
017-012-00-7
PubChem CID
24504

Physical-chemical properties

Molecular Formula
CaCl2O2
Molar Mass
142.98 g/mol
IUPAC Name
calcium dihypochlorite

Chemical Identifiers

InChI
InChI=1S/Ca.2ClO/c;2*1-2/q+2;2*-1
InChI Key
ZKQDCIXGCQPQNV-UHFFFAOYSA-N

Overview

Calcium dihypochlorite (CAS 7778-54-3) is an inorganic oxidizing compound with strong disinfectant and bleaching properties. This white crystalline powder serves as one of the most widely used chlorine-based oxidizing agents in industrial applications. Also known by its IUPAC name calcium dihypochlorite, this compound with molecular formula CaCl2O2 and molecular weight of 142.98 g/mol releases active chlorine when dissolved in water, making it highly effective for water treatment and sanitation processes. The substance is classified under multiple hazard categories including oxidizing solids (Ox. Sol. 2), acute toxicity (Acute Tox. 4), skin corrosion (Skin Corr. 1B), and aquatic acute toxicity (Aquatic Acute 1). Its danger classification requires careful handling with appropriate GHS pictogrammes (GHS03, GHS07, GHS05, GHS09) indicating oxidizing, harmful, corrosive, and environmentally hazardous properties. Transportation falls under ADR class 5.1 for oxidizing substances. Key industrial applications include water disinfection in swimming pools and municipal water treatment facilities, where its stability and controlled chlorine release provide consistent antimicrobial action. The textile and paper industries utilize calcium dihypochlorite for bleaching processes, while waste water treatment plants employ it for pathogen elimination. Unlike other oxidizing compounds such as disodium oxido-(oxido(dioxo)chromio)oxy-dioxochromium, calcium dihypochlorite offers the advantage of chlorine-based oxidation without heavy metal concerns. Safety protocols require proper ventilation, protective equipment, and segregation from incompatible materials including acids and reducing agents. Storage in cool, dry conditions away from organic materials prevents decomposition and potential hazardous reactions. OYSI provides calcium dihypochlorite to European industrial customers with comprehensive technical documentation and safety data sheets.

Safety & Classification

Danger
Classification:

Ox. Sol. 2; Acute Tox. 4 *; Skin Corr. 1B; Aquatic Acute 1

HHazard Statements (H-Statements)

Describe the nature and severity of the hazard

H272

May intensify fire; oxidiser.

H302

Harmful if swallowed.

H314

Causes severe skin burns and eye damage.

H400

Very toxic to aquatic life.

Classification according to CLP Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008. The complete list of hazard and precautionary statements can be found in the Safety Data Sheet (SDS).

First Aid Measures

Skin Contact

Harmful

Measures if substance contacts the skin

First Aid Actions

  • +P302IF ON SKIN:
  • +P352Wash with plenty of water.
  • +P361Take off immediately all contaminated clothing.
  • +P313Get medical advice/attention.

Related hazard statements:

Eye Contact

Harmful

Measures if substance gets into the eyes

First Aid Actions

  • +P305IF IN EYES:
  • +P351Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes.
  • +P338Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.
  • +P313Get medical advice/attention.

Related hazard statements:

Ingestion

Harmful

Measures if substance is accidentally swallowed

First Aid Actions

  • +P301IF SWALLOWED:
  • +P330Rinse mouth.
  • +P331Do NOT induce vomiting.
  • +P310Immediately call a POISON CENTER/doctor.

Related hazard statements:

General Measures

Emergency 112 | Poison Control: +49 30 19240 (DE), +33 1 45 42 59 59 (FR), +31 30 274 88 88 (NL)

First aid measures are based on CLP classification and associated P-statements. They do not replace the Safety Data Sheet (SDS). In case of emergency, always consult the full SDS and a physician.

Transport (ADR)

UN Number3485
ADR Class5.1
Packing GroupII
Tunnel CodeE
Proper Shipping NameCalciumhypochlorit, trocken, entzündend (oxidierend) wirkend, ätzend oder schwach ätzend
Marine PollutantNo

Frequently Asked Questions

What is calcium dihydrochlorite?

Calcium dihydrochlorite is an inorganic chemical compound with the molecular formula CaCl2O2 and CAS number 7778-54-3. This oxidizing agent has a molecular weight of 142.98 g/mol and serves primarily as a disinfectant and bleaching agent. It releases chlorine when dissolved in water, making it effective for water treatment applications. The compound is classified as hazardous with multiple danger classifications including oxidizing solid, acute toxicity, skin corrosion, and aquatic toxicity properties.

What are the physicochemical properties of calcium dihydrochlorite?

Calcium dihydrochlorite is a white crystalline solid that readily dissolves in water, releasing available chlorine. The compound has a characteristic chlorine-like odor and demonstrates strong oxidizing properties due to its chemical structure. It is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture from air, and decomposes when exposed to heat, light, or acidic conditions. The substance has a molecular weight of 142.98 g/mol and maintains stability under proper storage conditions but can react violently with organic materials and reducing agents.

What is calcium dihydrochlorite used for?

Calcium dihydrochlorite is primarily used as a disinfectant and sanitizing agent in water treatment facilities, swimming pools, and industrial cleaning applications. It serves as an effective bleaching agent in textile and paper industries due to its chlorine-releasing properties. The compound is also utilized in wastewater treatment plants for pathogen control and odor management. Additionally, it finds applications in food processing facilities for surface disinfection and in agricultural settings for equipment sanitization and water treatment.

How to handle calcium dihydrochlorite safely?

Calcium dihydrochlorite requires careful handling with appropriate personal protective equipment including chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles, and protective clothing due to its Skin Corr. 1B classification. Work in well-ventilated areas to avoid inhalation of chlorine vapors and prevent contact with skin and eyes. Use non-sparking tools and avoid friction or impact as it is an oxidizing solid (Ox. Sol. 2). Keep away from heat sources, combustible materials, and incompatible substances. Always have emergency eyewash and shower facilities readily available.

How to store calcium dihydrochlorite correctly?

Calcium dihydrochlorite must be stored in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from heat sources, direct sunlight, and incompatible materials. Keep containers tightly closed in original packaging and separate from organic materials, acids, and reducing agents to prevent dangerous reactions. Storage areas should be equipped with appropriate spill containment and fire suppression systems. Maintain temperatures below 25°C and ensure humidity levels remain low to prevent decomposition. Regular inspection of containers for signs of deterioration is essential for safe storage.

What to do in case of contact with calcium dihydrochlorite?

Calcium dihydrochlorite contact requires immediate action due to its corrosive properties. For skin contact, immediately remove contaminated clothing and flush affected area with copious amounts of water for at least 15 minutes, then seek medical attention. In case of eye contact, rinse immediately with clean water for at least 15 minutes while holding eyelids open and obtain urgent medical care. If inhaled, move person to fresh air and seek medical attention if breathing difficulties occur. Never induce vomiting if ingested and seek immediate medical help.

How to dispose of calcium dihydrochlorite properly?

Calcium dihydrochlorite disposal must comply with local, national, and EU waste regulations as it is classified as hazardous waste. The substance cannot be disposed of in regular waste streams due to its oxidizing and corrosive properties. Contact licensed hazardous waste disposal companies for proper treatment and disposal. Small quantities may be neutralized carefully under controlled conditions by qualified personnel, but large amounts require professional hazardous waste management. Always consult with local environmental authorities for specific disposal requirements and maintain proper documentation of waste disposal activities.

How to transport calcium dihydrochlorite?

Calcium dihydrochlorite is classified under ADR as Class 5.1 (Oxidizing substances) Packing Group II, requiring specific transport regulations compliance. Use approved packaging materials and labels according to dangerous goods transportation requirements. Vehicles must carry appropriate emergency equipment and documentation including safety data sheets and transport emergency cards. Drivers need ADR certification for hazardous materials transport. Segregate from incompatible materials during transport and ensure proper ventilation. Emergency response procedures must be readily available throughout the transportation process.

Is calcium dihydrochlorite subject to specific regulations?

Calcium dihydrochlorite is subject to multiple European regulations including REACH registration requirements, CLP classification and labeling standards, and transportation regulations under ADR. The substance is not listed as a SVHC (Substance of Very High Concern) but must comply with occupational health and safety directives due to its hazardous classification. Water discharge regulations apply when used in industrial processes, and biocidal product regulations may apply depending on intended use. Companies must maintain safety data sheets and ensure proper worker training and protection measures are implemented.

Where to buy calcium dihydrochlorite in Europe?

Calcium dihydrochlorite is available through OYSI, a European distributor specializing in technical chemical products. OYSI provides reliable supply chains across Europe with proper documentation including safety data sheets, certificates of analysis, and regulatory compliance information. As a professional chemical distributor, OYSI ensures product quality, proper packaging, and adherence to transportation regulations for hazardous materials. Contact OYSI directly for specific grades, quantities, and delivery options suitable for your industrial or professional applications throughout European markets.

Data Sources

Classification per CLP Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008. Data from ECHA and PubChem.