Quicklime

Our range of high purity and quality quicklime products provides a comprehensive selection of reactivity and particle size distributions for use in many applications.

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Calbux Quicklime

Calbux Quicklime

Limbase Quicklime

Limbase Quicklime

Biocal Quicklime

Biocal Quicklime

What is Quicklime and why is it so important?

Calcium oxide, more commonly known as quicklime, is a remarkable chemical compound that has played a pivotal role in human civilisation for centuries. Derived from the thermal decomposition of limestone, this alkaline and crystalline solid has found extensive applications across numerous industries, making it an indispensable part of our modern world. From construction and soil remediation to steel manufacturing and water treatment, quicklime’s unique properties and versatility have made it an essential compound in such a wide range of industry sectors.

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The origins of Quicklime

The origins of Quicklime

Quicklime’s history can be traced back to ancient civilisations, where it was first discovered and utilised for its unique properties. The earliest known use of quicklime dates back to the ancient Greeks and Romans, who employed it in the construction of their iconic buildings and infrastructure. The Romans, in particular, were known for their innovative use of quicklime, mixing it with volcanic ash to create a durable and long-lasting building material known as pozzolanic mortar.

As human civilisation progressed, the applications of quicklime expanded beyond the realm of construction and medicine. During the Industrial Revolution, it became an essential raw material in the production of various chemicals, including calcium hydroxide, and played a pivotal role in the steel industry, where it was used to extract impurities from iron ore.

The production of Quicklime

The production of Quicklime

Quicklime is produced through the thermal decomposition of calcium carbonate (limestone). This process, known as calcination, involves heating the limestone to extremely high temperatures, typically ranging between 1,070°C and 1,270°C, in specialised kilns.

During the calcination process, the calcium carbonate undergoes a chemical reaction, where the carbon dioxide is driven off, leaving behind the calcium oxide, or quicklime. This reaction can be represented by the following equation:

CaCO3 + Heat → CaO + CO2

Buxton Lime is famous for its purity and consistent chemistry. Our advanced production and quality management systems ensure our lime products provide the most effective solution for each and every application.

The unique properties of Quicklime

Quicklime is a remarkable material with a unique set of physical and chemical properties that contribute to its widespread popularity. Some of the key properties of quicklime include:

High melting point

High melting point

Quicklime has an exceptionally high melting point, reaching up to 2,572°C. This property makes it a highly stable compound, capable of withstanding extreme temperatures without undergoing significant changes.

Alkaline nature

Alkaline nature

Quicklime is a highly alkaline substance, with a pH value of around 12.45 at 25°C. This alkaline nature allows it to be used as a reagent in numerous neutralisation reactions, making it a valuable tool in various industrial and environmental applications.

Exothermic reaction with water

Exothermic reaction with water

When quicklime is combined with water, it undergoes an exothermic reaction, releasing a significant amount of heat. This reaction, known as the "slaking" of lime, is responsible for the characteristic bubbling and release of steam that occurs when quicklime is mixed with water.

Versatility in particle size

Versatility in particle size

Quicklime can be produced in a variety of particle sizes, from coarse pebbles to fine powders. which allows it to be tailored to the specific needs of different industries and applications.

Buxton Lime are the UK leader in the supply of lime solutions

Quicklime’s unique characteristics make it indispensable across a wide range of industries. Buxton Lime is famous for its purity and consistent chemistry. Our advanced production and quality management systems ensure our lime products and solutions provide the most effective solution for each and every application.

Our products are used for everything from water treatment to soil stabilisation, to the manufacture of iron, steel, plastics, paper and glass. Quite simply, our world wouldn’t be the same without them.

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Frequently asked questions

As industries continue to evolve and new demands emerge, the importance of quicklime is only set to grow. Every year, we undergo ongoing research and innovation in quicklime production, handling, and application to ensure that this remarkable material remains at the forefront of technological advancements, contributing to a more sustainable and efficient future.

Quicklime, or calcium oxide (CaO), is the product of the thermal decomposition of limestone. Hydrated lime, or calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2), is the result of the reaction between quicklime and water. Quicklime is more reactive and has a higher density compared to hydrated lime.

Quicklime is produced through the calcination of limestone (calcium carbonate) in specialised kilns. The high temperatures, typically ranging from 1,070°C to 1,270°C, drive off the carbon dioxide, leaving behind the calcium oxide (quicklime).

Quicklime has a wide range of applications, including construction (e.g., mortar, concrete, soil stabilization), environmental remediation (e.g., wastewater treatment, contaminated soil remediation), steel and metals manufacturing, paper and pulp production, water treatment, and chemical manufacturing.

Quicklime must be stored and transported in a way that protects it from exposure to moisture and air. This typically involves the use of silos, enclosed vessels, and specialised pneumatic handling systems to minimize the risk of the material reacting with the environment.

Yes, quicklime is alkaline and can be hazardous if not handled properly. The exothermic reaction that occurs when quicklime is combined with water can generate significant heat, posing a risk of burns and potential fire hazards. Proper personal protective equipment and safety protocols must be followed when working with quicklime.

Dolomitic lime, or dolime, is a type of quicklime that contains both calcium oxide (CaO) and magnesium oxide (MgO). Dolomitic lime is commonly used as a flux and slag conditioner in steelmaking, as well as in environmental and wastewater treatment applications.

Quicklime reacts exothermically with water to form hydrated lime. This reaction releases heat and steam and causes the material to expand and break down into a fine powder.

Yes. Quicklime improves wet or clay soils by reducing moisture content, increasing bearing capacity and improving workability. It is widely used in highways, infrastructure and earthworks projects.

Quicklime plays an important role in environmental protection, including water purification, waste treatment and air pollution control. When used responsibly, it supports cleaner processes and regulatory compliance.

Quicklime purity depends on the source limestone and manufacturing process. High-calcium quicklime provides consistent performance and excellent reactivity. Full technical specifications are available from Buxton Lime.

The correct grade depends on particle size, reactivity, purity, logistics and application requirements. Buxton Lime’s technical team can advise on product selection and optimisation.

When stored correctly in dry conditions, quicklime maintains its performance for extended periods. Exposure to moisture will reduce effectiveness.

Yes. Buxton Lime supplies quicklime in bulk and packaged formats to suit project scale and logistics requirements. Delivery options are available nationwide.

Yes. Buxton Lime offers expert technical guidance, safety advice and product support to ensure optimum performance and compliance.

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