Slaked lime; excluding calcium oxide and hydroxide of heading no. 2825

HS code 252220 covers slaked lime, a versatile chemical compound with a wide range of industrial applications. Slaked lime, also known as calcium hydroxide, is produced by the chemical reaction of calcium oxide (quicklime) and water. It is an essential material in various industries, including construction, steel production, and water treatment, playing a crucial role in the broader economy.

The production of slaked lime typically involves a two-step process. First, calcium oxide (quicklime) is produced by heating limestone (calcium carbonate) in a kiln at high temperatures, driving off carbon dioxide. The resulting calcium oxide is then combined with water, causing a chemical reaction that produces calcium hydroxide, or slaked lime.

The primary raw material for the production of slaked lime is limestone, a sedimentary rock composed primarily of calcium carbonate. Additionally, the production process requires a reliable supply of water and energy, typically in the form of heat generated from fuel sources. Specialized equipment, such as kilns, mills, and mixing tanks, are also essential for the efficient manufacture of slaked lime.

Slaked lime is a versatile product with numerous applications. It is widely used in the construction industry as a binder in mortar and plaster, as well as a soil stabilizer. In the steel industry, slaked lime is employed as a flux to remove impurities during the smelting process. Additionally, slaked lime is a crucial component in water treatment, where it is used to adjust pH levels and remove contaminants. Other industries that consume slaked lime include the paper, sugar, and chemical manufacturing sectors. Closely related HS codes that may utilize the output of 252220 include 252100 Limestone flux; limestone and other calcareous stone, of a kind used for the manufacture of lime or cement and 281520 Calcium oxide and hydroxide.