Hydrated lime powder, also known as calcium hydroxide or slaked lime, has a wide range of uses across various industries, including construction, agriculture, and chemical processing. It's used for soil stabilization, water treatment, neutralizing acidic soils, and in the production of various chemicals and compounds.
Here's a more detailed look at its applications:
1. Construction:
- Soil Stabilization: Hydrated lime is used to improve the strength, stiffness, and durability of soils, particularly in construction projects like roads, dams, and foundations.
- Mortar and Plaster: It's an essential ingredient in the production of mortars and plasters, enhancing their workability and durability.
- Cement: Hydrated lime can be added to cement to reduce shrinkage and cracking.
2. Agriculture:
- Soil pH Adjustment:Hydrated lime helps to raise the pH of acidic soils, making them more suitable for plant growth.
- Water Treatment:It's used in water treatment to remove hardness and impurities, making the water suitable for agricultural use.
3. Chemical Industry:
- Neutralization:Hydrated lime is used to neutralize acidic waste streams and adjust pH levels in various chemical processes.
- Purification:It's used in water and wastewater treatment to remove impurities and heavy metals.
- Flue Gas Desulfurization:In coal-fired power plants and other industries, hydrated lime is used to remove sulfur dioxide from flue gas emissions.
- Production of Chemicals:It's a key ingredient in the production of various calcium-based compounds and other chemicals.
4. Other Industries:
- Leather Processing:Hydrated lime is used in the leather tanning process to remove hair and flesh.
- Food Industry:It can be used as a food additive and in the production of certain baking powders.
- Environmental Applications:Hydrated lime is used to neutralize acidic soils and industrial waste, contributing to environmental protection.