Calcium Chloride Dihydrate (CaCl₂·2H₂O, CAS No. 10035-04-8) is a highly effective moisture-absorbing compound. Its ability to absorb up to 300% of its weight in water makes it ideal for controlling humidity across industries. Common uses include pharmaceutical manufacturing to maintain drug stability and food processing to extend shelf life. It also plays a role in construction for concrete curing and in oil and gas operations for moisture management.
Available in four grades – Technical (97-99%), Food Grade (99%+), Pharmaceutical (99.5%+), and Laboratory (99%+) – each serves specific applications based on purity needs and regulatory standards. Proper handling involves using protective equipment and storing it in airtight containers to preserve quality. For reliable sourcing, partnering with experienced suppliers ensures compliance and consistent performance.
Calcium Chloride Dihydrate Grades and Their Uses
Available Grades in the US Market
Calcium chloride dihydrate is widely recognized for its effectiveness in managing moisture. In the US, several grades are available, each tailored for specific industrial needs.
Technical grade calcium chloride dihydrate offers a purity range of 97-99% and is primarily used in industrial settings. It’s ideal for applications like dehumidification systems, concrete acceleration, and general desiccant use where ultra-high purity isn’t essential. For instance, warehouses often rely on this grade to control humidity and protect equipment from moisture damage.
Food grade (FCC) calcium chloride dihydrate meets the stringent standards of the Food Chemicals Codex, ensuring a purity level of 99% or higher. This grade is essential for food-related processes, such as cheese production, vegetable firming, and moisture control in storage facilities. It adheres to FDA regulations, particularly regarding heavy metal limits.
Pharmaceutical grade (USP/NF) represents the highest purity level, exceeding 99.5%, and meets the rigorous requirements of the United States Pharmacopeia and National Formulary. This grade is indispensable for pharmaceutical manufacturing, including drug formulation and maintaining controlled environments like clean rooms. It undergoes strict testing to ensure minimal levels of impurities such as arsenic and lead.
Laboratory grade (ACS) complies with American Chemical Society reagent specifications, making it suitable for both research and analytical applications. While primarily designed for laboratory use, it also supports specialized industrial tasks that demand precise moisture control.
These grades cater to diverse needs, from industrial dehumidification to pharmaceutical production, ensuring the right balance of performance and compliance.
How to Select the Right Grade
Choosing the appropriate grade of calcium chloride dihydrate depends on factors like regulatory compliance, purity needs, and cost considerations. Each application has unique requirements, and selecting the wrong grade can impact both performance and adherence to regulations.
First, determine the regulatory standards relevant to your industry. For example, food processing must use FCC-grade calcium chloride dihydrate to meet FDA requirements, while pharmaceutical applications require USP/NF grade to comply with Good Manufacturing Practice guidelines. Industrial uses without direct contact with food or drugs can typically opt for technical grade, which provides a more economical solution.
Purity requirements also vary. For instance, pharmaceutical clean rooms demand the highest purity to avoid contamination, whereas general warehouse dehumidification can operate effectively with technical grade. Assess whether trace impurities could compromise the quality of your product or process.
Cost considerations are equally important. Technical grade is the most affordable, costing 20-30% less than food grade, while pharmaceutical grade is priced higher due to its extensive purification and testing processes. Evaluate the overall cost, including potential risks of non-compliance with regulatory standards.
Additionally, operating conditions, such as high temperatures, may necessitate the use of higher purity grades to maintain performance.
Grade Comparison Table
| Grade | Purity Level | Key Applications | Regulatory Compliance | Relative Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Technical | 97-99% | Industrial dehumidification, concrete acceleration, general moisture control | Industrial standards | Lowest |
| Food Grade (FCC) | 99%+ | Food processing, cheese production, vegetable firming | FDA/FCC compliant | Moderate |
| Pharmaceutical (USP/NF) | 99.5%+ | Drug manufacturing, clean room humidity control | USP/NF compliant | Highest |
| Laboratory (ACS) | 99%+ | Research applications, analytical testing | ACS reagent grade | High |
This information is intended for guidance only. Always consult with regulatory experts and industry professionals before making decisions regarding sourcing or formulations.
Does Calcium Chloride Absorb Moisture? – Chemistry For Everyone
Industrial Uses of Calcium Chloride Dihydrate for Moisture Control
Calcium chloride dihydrate is a versatile compound with a range of industrial applications, particularly in managing moisture. Here’s how it plays a vital role across different industries.
Dehumidification and Desiccants
One of the standout qualities of calcium chloride dihydrate is its ability to absorb moisture effectively. This makes it an ideal choice for protecting sensitive products during storage and transportation.
In the electronics industry, it is commonly used in desiccants to safeguard semiconductors, circuit boards, and other components that are highly susceptible to moisture damage. By preventing corrosion, it ensures these delicate items arrive in perfect condition.
Additionally, industrial dehumidification systems in warehouses and storage facilities rely on calcium chloride dihydrate to maintain consistent humidity levels. This helps protect stored goods and equipment from moisture-related damage. Its affordability makes it a practical solution for large-scale dehumidification needs.
Construction and Infrastructure
In the construction sector, calcium chloride dihydrate serves multiple purposes, particularly in moisture management and concrete work. It accelerates cement hydration and aids in faster setting, which is especially useful in challenging weather conditions.
During the curing process, it helps retain the necessary moisture levels to prevent cracking and ensure the structural strength of concrete. In road construction, it is used for dust control and moisture retention, enhancing the durability and safety of road surfaces.
Its ability to lower the freezing point of water also makes it invaluable in winter construction projects. By reducing the risk of freezing in concrete mixes, it minimizes delays caused by cold weather and ensures smoother operations.
Food Preservation and Processing
Beyond industrial and construction applications, calcium chloride dihydrate also plays a key role in food-related uses, particularly for moisture control.
In food processing, food-grade calcium chloride dihydrate is used to extend the freshness and shelf life of products. It helps maintain texture, flavor, and nutritional quality by controlling moisture levels.
For cheese production, it supports the coagulation process by maintaining proper moisture during aging and storage, ensuring curd formation. In canned goods, it prevents condensation, which can damage labels or lead to container corrosion. Similarly, in fresh produce storage, it helps retain the crispness and quality of vegetables by regulating humidity.
In fruit processing, calcium chloride dihydrate enhances the firmness of canned and processed fruits. By providing calcium ions, it strengthens cell walls, ensuring the fruits maintain their desired texture.
This content is for informational purposes only. Be sure to consult official regulations and qualified professionals when making sourcing or formulation decisions.
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Safe Handling and Storage Guidelines
Ensuring proper handling and storage of Calcium Chloride Dihydrate is essential for maintaining both safety and its moisture control capabilities.
OSHA-Compliant Handling Procedures
When working with Calcium Chloride Dihydrate, it’s important to wear the right personal protective equipment (PPE). This includes safety goggles or face shields to protect your eyes and nitrile or neoprene gloves to shield your hands.
If you’re in a dusty environment or dealing with large quantities, use a NIOSH-approved dust mask or respirator. Also, make sure the area is well-ventilated to minimize exposure to airborne particles.
In case of skin contact, rinse the area thoroughly with water and remove any contaminated clothing. For eye exposure, flush the eyes with water while keeping the eyelids open, and seek medical attention if irritation persists. If the substance is accidentally ingested, rinse your mouth with water and seek medical advice immediately.
For spills, dry material should be swept up using non-sparking tools and disposed of properly. Wet spills can be absorbed with inert materials like sand to minimize dust and reduce slip risks.
These handling measures align with the storage practices outlined below.
Storage Best Practices
Calcium Chloride Dihydrate is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture from the air[1]. To preserve its quality and performance, store it in a cool, dry area. Keep it sealed in an airtight container or bag, such as a Flinn Chem-Saf™ bag, to prevent moisture absorption[1].
This information is for general guidance. Always refer to official regulations and consult qualified professionals for specific handling and storage needs.
Why Source Calcium Chloride Dihydrate from Allan Chemical Corporation?
When it comes to sourcing Calcium Chloride Dihydrate, finding a dependable supplier is crucial for maintaining consistent quality and reliable service. With over 40 years of experience in specialty chemical sourcing for regulated industries, Allan Chemical Corporation offers a broad product range and dedicated customer support.
Extensive Product Selection
Allan Chemical Corporation provides a wide variety of Calcium Chloride Dihydrate grades, including ACS, FCC, and USP [4], catering to a vast range of industrial and commercial needs. Whether you’re looking for pharmaceutical-grade material for controlled environments or food-grade calcium chloride for processing, their inventory has you covered.
Their products meet stringent standards such as ACS, USP/NF, FCC, Kosher, and Halal [3], which simplifies procurement by eliminating the need to source from multiple suppliers for different grade requirements.
"At AllanChem, many of our products conform to, or exceed, the latest compendia of quality standards. These include but are not limited to ACS, USP, NF, FCC, Kosher and Halal." [3]
Additionally, Allan Chemical Corporation accommodates custom requests for specialized applications or hard-to-find products, ensuring tailored solutions for unique operational needs.
Commitment to Quality and Compliance
Allan Chemical Corporation adheres to strict quality standards, with products like their Calcium Chloride Dihydrate meeting ACS Listed criteria, ensuring compliance with American Chemical Society guidelines for laboratory and industrial use.
Comprehensive documentation, including Safety Data Sheets (SDS), is available upon request [3], which is particularly critical for industries like food processing, pharmaceuticals, and construction where regulatory compliance is a top priority.
Moreover, their supply chain is designed to maintain quality at every step. While sourcing products globally, Allan Chemical Corporation warehouses them locally across North America, Mexico, and Central America [2]. This approach ensures both consistent availability and adherence to quality standards during storage and distribution.
Customer-Centered Approach
Allan Chemical Corporation pairs its high-quality products with exceptional customer service. Their "just in time service" model [3] minimizes inventory costs by ensuring materials are delivered exactly when needed. With a network of local warehouses, they can promptly ship products across their coverage area, reducing potential delays in supply chains.
"Quality and service have been and continue to be our driving forces." [6]
Their technical support team is readily available to assist with inquiries, guide grade selection, and resolve any product-specific questions [3]. This expertise is especially helpful when transitioning between grades or implementing new moisture management systems.
"Our products are sourced worldwide and warehoused locally for prompt shipment." [6]
For additional assistance, direct customer support is accessible via phone and email, ensuring quick responses to technical, ordering, or application-related queries [4] [5]. This level of accessibility helps keep projects on track while addressing any concerns efficiently.
This content is for informational purposes only. Always consult official regulations and qualified professionals before making sourcing or formulation decisions.
Conclusion
Calcium Chloride Dihydrate proves to be a reliable and adaptable option for managing moisture in applications ranging from dehumidification and food processing to construction. Choosing the appropriate grade – whether ACS/USP for pharmaceuticals or FCC for food-related uses – is essential for achieving both regulatory compliance and operational efficiency.
Equally critical is following strict safety measures. Always wear proper personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses, gloves, and aprons, and ensure that eyewash stations and washing facilities are easily accessible. Store the material in airtight containers in cool, dry, and well-ventilated spaces to prevent it from absorbing moisture and forming corrosive acids [7]. These steps not only safeguard your team but also help maintain the product’s quality over its lifespan.
The success of moisture control applications also hinges on sourcing Calcium Chloride Dihydrate from a trusted supplier. With decades of experience, Allan Chemical Corporation offers a broad range of grades and maintains rigorous quality standards to meet the demands of regulated industries. Their "just in time service" model, supported by local warehousing, ensures reliable availability without compromising quality from procurement to delivery.
For effective moisture management, focus on selecting the correct grade, adhering to safety protocols, and partnering with a dependable supplier. When handled responsibly and sourced from a knowledgeable provider, Calcium Chloride Dihydrate continues to deliver consistent results across a variety of industries.
This content is for informational purposes only. Always consult official regulations and qualified professionals before making sourcing or formulation decisions.
FAQs
What should I consider when choosing the right grade of Calcium Chloride Dihydrate for my industry needs?
When choosing a grade of Calcium Chloride Dihydrate, you need to think about factors like purity, application, and regulatory standards. For industries such as food and pharmaceuticals, high-purity grades are a must. On the other hand, industrial grades work well for applications like de-icing, moisture control, or dust suppression.
You’ll also want to evaluate its ability to absorb moisture, stability, and how well it interacts with materials in your environment. For food or pharmaceutical uses, it’s especially important to meet all safety and regulatory guidelines. Selecting the right grade and handling it correctly will help you achieve the best results while maintaining safety.
What role does Calcium Chloride Dihydrate play in controlling moisture in industries like food processing and construction?
Calcium Chloride Dihydrate is widely recognized for its ability to control moisture effectively, making it indispensable across multiple industries. As a desiccant, it absorbs moisture from the air, helping to combat humidity-related challenges. This property is especially critical in sectors like electronics, pharmaceuticals, and packaged foods, where excess moisture can degrade product quality or functionality.
In the food industry, it plays a key role in preserving freshness and maintaining the desired texture of products by managing moisture levels. In construction, it speeds up concrete hydration, reduces curing times, and minimizes excess moisture in building materials, enhancing both durability and performance. Its broad utility and reliable performance make it a go-to solution for moisture management in a range of industrial settings.
What are the best practices for safely handling and storing Calcium Chloride Dihydrate to ensure its effectiveness and comply with safety guidelines?
To keep Calcium Chloride Dihydrate effective and handle it safely, store it in a cool, dry location with tightly sealed containers. This prevents it from absorbing moisture, which could reduce its quality. Make sure the storage area is well-ventilated and kept away from substances it might react with.
When working with the chemical, always wear personal protective equipment (PPE), such as safety glasses, gloves, and protective clothing. Ensure the workspace has proper ventilation, and have emergency equipment like eyewash stations and safety showers close by in case of accidental exposure. Additionally, take care to protect containers from physical damage to prevent spills or contamination.
By adhering to these guidelines, you can handle the chemical safely while preserving its quality and complying with safety standards.
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