Quicklime; excluding calcium oxide and hydroxide of heading no. 2825

HS code 252210 covers quicklime, a critical industrial material used in a wide range of applications. Quicklime, also known as calcium oxide, is a highly versatile substance that plays a vital role in various industries, including construction, steel production, and environmental management. As a key component in the production of cement, lime, and other essential materials, the quicklime industry is a fundamental part of the global economy.

The production of quicklime involves the thermal decomposition of limestone (calcium carbonate) through a process called calcination. This process typically takes place in a lime kiln, where the limestone is heated to high temperatures, typically between 800°C and 1,200°C, to drive off carbon dioxide and produce calcium oxide. The resulting quicklime is then cooled and processed for various applications.

The primary input for the quicklime industry is limestone, a sedimentary rock composed primarily of calcium carbonate. Other raw materials, such as coal or natural gas, are used as fuel sources to power the calcination process. Additionally, the industry requires specialized equipment, including lime kilns, crushers, and conveyor systems, to efficiently extract and process the limestone into quicklime.

The primary output of the quicklime industry is, of course, quicklime itself. Quicklime has a wide range of applications, including 252220 Slaked lime production, 252310 Cement clinker manufacturing, and various chemical and industrial processes. The quicklime industry also produces 252390 Other hydraulic cements, which are used in the construction and building materials sectors.