Calcium Oxide

Calcium Oxide is commonly known as quicklime. It has a chemical formulation of (CaO) and appears as a solid white odourless crystalline material. Calcium Oxide produces an exothermic reaction when it comes into contact with water i.e. it produces heat. When Calcium Oxide or quicklime is heated to 2400 degrees Centigrade it produces an intense glow which is known as limelight. Before the invention of electricity and electrical lighting, theatre companies used Calcium Oxide to illuminate productions, hence the expression “in the limelight”.

Calcium Oxide is produced all over the world but China produces the most Calcium Oxide at over 170 million metric tonnes per year. Annual production worldwide is about 283 million metric tonnes.

Calcium Oxide was used effectively as a weapon in war in olden times. An incendiary substance known as 'Greek Fire' is believed to have been based on Calcium Oxide and was used in the Byzantine Empire. One of the benefits of using Greek Fire is that it was able to continue to burn under water which made it an effective weapon to use in naval battles.

Owing to its vigorous reaction to water, Calcium Oxide can cause severe irritation if it is allowed to come into contact with moist skin, eyes, nasal passages or respiratory tract. Inhalation of Calcium Oxide dust can cause coughing, sneezing, difficulty breathing and severe damage to lungs and oesophagus. Eye contact can cause severe irritation, blisters and can result in permanent blindness.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) should always be worn when working with or handling Calcium Oxide. This should include full protective clothing, including safety boots or shoes, approved eye protection in the form of safety glasses or safety goggles, appropriate protective gloves and breathing apparatus/respirator if required. Medical advice should be sought immediately in the event of contact with skin, eyes, inhalation or ingestion.

Containers of Calcium Oxide should be stored in a cool well-ventilated area, away from incompatible organic materials, acids and moisture. Containers should be kept tightly closed and stored at temperatures no higher than 24 degrees Centigrade. Never add water to this product.