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Calcium Carbide: A Key Industrial Compound Driving Acetylene and Chemical Production
Calcium carbide (CaC₂) is a grayish-black, solid chemical compound known primarily for its role in generating acetylene gas when reacted with water. With broad industrial applications spanning from metal processing to chemical synthesis, calcium carbide remains a critical material in both traditional and emerging sectors.
What is Calcium Carbide?
Calcium carbide is produced by heating a mixture of lime (CaO) and coke (carbon) in an electric arc furnace at temperatures around 2,000–2,200°C. The resulting compound reacts vigorously with water to release acetylene (C₂H₂) and calcium hydroxide:
CaC2+2H2O→C2H2+Ca(OH)2CaC2+2H2O→C2H2+Ca(OH)2
Key Applications
Acetylene Gas ProductionThe primary use of calcium carbide is in the on-demand generation of acetylene, a high-energy gas used in:
Metal cutting and welding (oxy-acetylene torches)
Organic chemical synthesis (e.g., acetic acid, synthetic rubber, PVC precursors)
Desulfurization in SteelmakingCalcium carbide is used to remove sulfur impurities from iron and steel, improving product quality and extending equipment life.
Carbide Lamps (Historical Use)Before electric lighting became widespread, calcium carbide was used in mining and caving lamps to produce bright, portable light.
Chemical ManufacturingAcetylene derived from calcium carbide is a key building block in producing solvents, plastics, and pharmaceuticals in regions where petroleum-based feedstocks are scarce or expensive.