What Is Solid Calcium Carbide?

Solid calcium carbide (chemical formula: CaC₂) is an inorganic, crystalline compound composed of calcium and carbon atoms, known for its unique reactivity and industrial significance. At room temperature, it exists as a dense, grayish-black solid-typically in the form of lumps, granules, or powder-with a rough, rock-like texture. Its defining characteristic is its vigorous reaction with water, which releases acetylene gas (C₂H₂), a key fuel and chemical precursor.

 

1. Chemical and Physical Identity​

Composition: Composed of calcium ions (Ca²⁺) and dicarbide anions (C₂²⁻), where two carbon atoms are triple-bonded (≡C–C≡) in a linear structure.

Appearance: Grayish-black to dark brown solid, often sold in irregular lumps (10–50 mm) or granules for industrial use.

Density: ~2.22 g/cm³ (solid), making it heavier than water and most organic materials.

Melting Point: Sublimes (transitions directly from solid to gas) at ~2300°C, with no true liquid phase under standard pressure.

2. Key Property: Reactivity with Water​

Solid calcium carbide reacts violently with moisture (even trace amounts in air) via hydrolysis:

Products: Acetylene gas (a flammable, high-energy fuel) and calcium hydroxide (a white, alkaline slurry).

Exothermic: The reaction releases heat, which can accelerate gas evolution and pose fire risks.

3. Industrial Production​

Solid calcium carbide is synthesized via carbothermal reduction​ in an electric arc furnace:

Raw Materials: Lime (CaO, from limestone calcination) and coke (carbon, C).

Process: Heated to 2000–2500°C, where coke reduces CaO to CaC₂:

Output: Molten CaC₂ is cooled, crushed, and screened into solid lumps or granules for industrial use.

4. Common Forms of Solid Calcium Carbide​

Lumps: Irregular chunks (10–50 mm) for steelmaking, welding, and large-scale chemical plants.

Granules: Smaller particles (2–10 mm) for faster acetylene generation in portable generators.

Powder: Finely ground (<1 mm) for rapid reactions in specialized applications (e.g., laboratory settings).

5. Industrial and Commercial Uses​

Solid calcium carbide's utility stems from its acetylene-generating capacity and role in chemical synthesis:

Oxy-Acetylene Welding/Cutting: Powers torches that produce 3300°C flames for cutting steel and welding metals.

Steelmaking: Acts as a deoxidizer and desulfurizer to purify molten iron and steel.

Chemical Manufacturing: Feeds acetylene into processes for PVC, synthetic rubber, and acetic acid production.

Foundry Operations: Strengthens sand molds by reacting with silica to form calcium silicate.

6. Safety and Handling​

Hazard: Reacts with moisture to produce explosive acetylene gas (2.5–82% concentration in air).

Storage: Must be kept in airtight, moisture-proof containers (steel drums, desiccant-lined bags) in dry, cool areas.

PPE: Requires gloves, goggles, and flame-retardant clothing to prevent skin/eye contact and fire risks.

 

Why Choose ZhenAn Company for Solid Calcium Carbide?​

ZhenAn Company supplies high-purity solid calcium carbide (80–98% CaC₂) with:

Consistent Quality: Rigorous testing for low impurities (sulfur <0.1%, phosphorus <0.3%).

Custom Forms: Lumps, granules, or powder tailored to your application.

Safe Packaging: Moisture-proof, UN-approved containers for secure transport and storage.

 

📧 Contact us at​ info@zaferroalloy.com to learn more about solid calcium carbide and get a quote for your industrial needs!