Hydrated lime is a commonly used chemical compound in various industries such as construction, agriculture, and water treatment. Its chemical formula is Ca(OH)2, and it is commonly pronounced as /ˈhaɪdreɪtɪd laɪm/. The word hydrated is derived from the Greek word "hydor," which means water. The spelling of lime, on the other hand, comes from the Old English word "līm," which means a sticky substance. Hydrated lime is a versatile and important compound that plays a vital role in many applications.
Hydrated lime, also known as slaked lime or calcium hydroxide (chemical formula: Ca(OH)2), is a white, powdery substance that is created by adding water to quicklime, also known as calcium oxide (CaO). Hydrated lime is primarily used in various industrial and construction applications.
When water is added to quicklime, a chemical reaction occurs, producing a fine, dry powder known as hydrated lime. This reaction, called slaking, releases heat and creates a compound with strong alkaline properties. The resulting hydrated lime has a pH value of around 12, making it highly basic.
Hydrated lime has numerous applications in industries such as agriculture, construction, and water treatment. It is commonly used as a soil amendment to increase soil pH and improve nutrient availability for plants. In construction, hydrated lime is often utilized in mortar and plaster mixtures to enhance workability, increase strength, and reduce cracking. It can also be utilized in wastewater treatment to adjust pH levels and precipitate impurities.
Due to its caustic and strongly alkaline nature, hydrated lime should be handled with care, as direct contact with skin or eyes may cause irritation or burns. It is important to wear appropriate protective equipment when working with hydrated lime.
In summary, hydrated lime is a white, powdery substance created by adding water to quicklime. It is widely utilized in various industries for its alkaline properties and is particularly prevalent in agriculture, construction, and water treatment applications.
The word "hydrated lime" is composed of two parts: "hydrated" and "lime".
The term "hydrated" comes from the Greek word "hydor", meaning "water". In chemistry, hydration refers to the process of adding water molecules to a substance.
The word "lime" can be traced back to the Old English word "līm", which originally referred to a sticky substance used as mortar or plaster. This Old English word has Germanic roots.
Therefore, "hydrated lime" refers to lime that has been chemically combined with water.