Calcium Chloride Hexahydrate

Calcium chloride hexahydrate (CaCl₂·6H₂O) is a hydrated form of calcium chloride, containing six molecules of water for every molecule of calcium chloride. This compound has a variety of industrial, commercial, and scientific uses due to its high solubility, moisture-absorbing properties, and low toxicity.

Characteristics

Chemical Formula: CaCl₂·6H₂O

Molecular Weight: 219.08 g/mol

Physical Appearance:White to colorless crystalline powder.It is highly hygroscopic (absorbs moisture easily from the air).

Solubility:Highly soluble in water (delivers a cooling effect when dissolved due to its endothermic dissolution).Soluble in ethanol and methanol.Insoluble in organic solvents like ether.

Melting Point: 30°C (begins to lose water of crystallization and melts)

Density: 1.71 g/cm³

Reactivity:

Hygroscopic, quickly absorbs moisture and can deliquesce (dissolve into its own absorbed moisture if exposed to humid air).Non-flammable and stable under normal conditions.When dissolved in water, it undergoes a cooling effect due to its highly endothermic dissolution process.

Applications

Laboratory Uses:

In laboratory settings, CaCl₂·6H₂O is used as a reagent for variou chemical reactions and processes.It is also used in experiments involving endothermic reactions or to induce osmotic stress in biological studies.

Water Treatment:

In wastewater treatment, calcium chloride hexahydrate is used to remove impurities and adjust the hardness of water. It binds with other ions to help neutralize acidic conditions in water and can also be used to control dust in areas such as construction sites.

Agriculture:

In agriculture, it is used to supplement calcium in soil, particularly for crops that are prone to calcium deficiency, such as tomatoes and apples, to prevent disorders like blossom end rot and bitter pit.
It is also applied as a foliar spray to correct nutrient deficiencies during the growing season.

Storage and Handling:

Calcium chloride hexahydrate powder should be stored in airtight containers to avoid absorbing moisture from the air and becoming deliquescent.

Calcium chloride hexahydrate (CaCl₂·6H₂O) powder is a highly versatile compound known for its hygroscopic properties and its ability to absorb moisture from the environment. It finds widespread use in de-icing, desiccants, food processing, concrete additives, water treatment, and refrigeration systems. Due to its low toxicity, it is also employed in the food, pharmaceutical, and medical industries. However, proper storage and handling are necessary to maintain its effectiveness and prevent unwanted absorption of moisture.