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

HS code 252230 covers hydraulic lime, a type of lime that hardens and sets when mixed with water. Hydraulic lime is an important construction material, used in the production of mortar, plaster, and other building materials. It plays a crucial role in the construction industry, providing a durable and long-lasting binding agent for various building projects. The demand for hydraulic lime is closely tied to the overall activity in the construction sector, making it an important component of the broader economy.

Hydraulic lime is produced by burning limestone or other calcareous materials in a kiln at a specific temperature range. The resulting product, known as quicklime, is then slaked or hydrated by adding water, which causes a chemical reaction that transforms the quicklime into hydraulic lime. The precise production techniques can vary depending on the specific type of limestone or other raw materials used, as well as the desired properties of the final product.

The primary input for the production of hydraulic lime is limestone or other calcareous materials, such as chalk or marl. These raw materials are the source of the calcium oxide that is essential for the hydraulic properties of the lime. In addition to the raw materials, the production of hydraulic lime requires specialized kilns and equipment for the burning, slaking, and processing of the lime. Energy sources, such as natural gas or coal, are also necessary to power the kilns during the production process.

The main output of HS code 252230 is hydraulic lime, which is used in a variety of construction applications. Hydraulic lime is commonly used in the production of mortar, plaster, and other building materials, where its ability to harden and set when mixed with water is a valuable property. The output of this industry may be consumed by other HS codes, such as 6809 Articles of plaster or of compositions based on plaster and 6810 Articles of cement, of concrete or of artificial stone, whether or not reinforced.