Calcium nitrate is a chemical compound with the formula Ca(NO3)2. It is a colourless, odorless salt that is highly soluble in water. Calcium nitrate is commonly used as a fertiliser, as it is a good source of both calcium and nitrogen, two essential nutrients for plant growth.
In addition to its use as a fertiliser, calcium nitrate is also used in the production of concrete, as a component in cold packs for first aid, and as a food additive. It can also be used in the production of explosives and as a component in rocket propellants.
Calcium nitrate can be prepared by reacting calcium carbonate or calcium hydroxide with nitric acid. It is important to handle calcium nitrate with care, as it can be an oxidising agent and can react with combustible materials.
What Forms Is Calcium Nitrate Available In?
Calcium nitrate can exist in different physical forms depending on how it is manufactured and processed. The most common physical forms of calcium nitrate are: Granular, Prill, Liquid, Powder.
Each physical form of calcium nitrate has its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on the specific application.
Granular Form of Calcium Nitrate
Granular calcium nitrate is a form of the compound that has been formed into small, spherical granules. This form is commonly used as a fertilise, which can be spread on the land just before planting or while caring for vegetation.
Some of the reasons Granular calcium Nitrate is preferred include the following:
- The granules are more stable and less likely to clump together, making them easier to store and transport.
- It dissolves more easily and quickly in water than powdered calcium nitrate. This means it can be applied more efficiently and accurately to the soil, ensuring that plants receive the necessary nutrients to grow.
- The granular form of Calcium Nitrate can be formulated to release nutrients slowly over time, ensuring that plants receive a consistent supply of nutrients over an extended period.
Liquid Form of Calcium Nitrate
Calcium nitrate is available in liquid form, most commonly applied as a liquid fertiliser. Calcium nitrate liquid can be sprayed directly onto plants or added to irrigation systems for slow-release application.
Liquid calcium nitrate is excellent for treating limestone because it’s an inorganic compound that won’t break down into harmful byproducts. Besides, calcium nitrate is highly endothermic, which absorbs heat energy, making it safe to use with molten salt mixtures, unlike more volatile compounds like ammonium nitrate.
It also comes in handy in wastewater treatment, primarily when used with nitric acid to reduce water’s hydrogen sulphide and ammonia concentrations. Liquid calcium nitrate is also used as a component in set-accelerating concrete admixtures. It helps concrete cure faster by promoting crystallisation during anaerobic conditions.
Calcium Nitrate Prills
Prills (solid pellets) form when liquid fertilisers are rapidly cooled and conveniently dissolve in water after a few moments of agitation. Calcium Nitrate prills are white or transparent and can range in size from 2 mm to 4 mm. These pellets are used in industrial applications such as the production of concrete admixtures.
Calcium Nitrate Powder
Powdered calcium nitrate is a form of compound that has been ground into a fine powder. This form is commonly used in the production of concrete and in other industrial applications. Calcium nitrate powder is ideal for treating limestone and inorganic compounds since it is highly endothermic, which means it can absorb heat as it dissolves. This property allows calcium nitrate to melt certain molten salt mixtures or dissipate heat.
Calcium Nitrate from Bisley & Company
At Bisley & Company, we pride ourselves on providing high-quality calcium nitrate products to meet all your needs. Whether you’re looking for granular or liquid fertiliser or pre-mixed formulations such as our Calcium Nitrate Prills and Calcium Nitrate Powder, we’ve got you covered. Order today to get the best quality calcium nitrate available on the market.
Please note not all products are available in every region, contact your local Bisley office.