Calcium nitrate tetrahydrate
| Formula: | CaN2O6*4H2O |
| Chemical formula: | Ca(NO3)2*4H2O |
| Density: | 1.82 g/cm3 (20°C) |
| Molar mass: | 236.15 g/mol |
| Bulk density: | ~1000 kg/m3 |
| CAS number: | 13477 – 34 – 4 |
| HS code: | 28342980 |
| EC number: | 233 – 332 -1 |
| Storage (temperature): | Without limitations. |
| SDS | available |
| R phrase: | R 8-36 |
| Odour: | odourless |
| Form: | solid |
| Color: | colourless |
| pH value: | 5.0 – 7.0 (50 g/l 25 °C) |
| Solubility in water: | 1470 g/l (20 °C) |
| Melting point: | 45 °C |
| Thermal decomposition: | 561 °C |
| Assay | ≥ | 98 | % |
| Description | Conforms | ||
| Solubility | Conforms | ||
| Identification | Conforms | ||
| pH | 4.0 – 6.0 | ||
| Chloride | ≤ | 0/005 | % |
| Sulphate | ≤ | 0/02 | % |
| Heavy metals | ≤ | 0/002 | % |
Calcium nitrate tetrahydrate is a colorless, crystalline inorganic compound that is highly soluble in water and commonly used in laboratory and pharmaceutical environments. It serves as a convenient source of calcium and nitrate ions in aqueous systems and is known for its stability and reactivity.
🏭⚗️ Production
It is typically produced by reacting calcium carbonate or calcium hydroxide with nitric acid, followed by controlled crystallization to obtain the tetrahydrate form. This hydrated form enhances the compound’s stability and ease of handling, especially under ambient laboratory conditions.
🔬 Properties
The chemical formula of calcium nitrate tetrahydrate is Ca(NO₃)₂·4H₂O, with a molar mass of approximately 236.15 g/mol. It appears as white to colorless hygroscopic crystals and dissolves readily in water. The solution is neutral to mildly acidic and acts as a mild oxidizing agent. The compound decomposes at high temperatures, releasing nitrogen oxides and calcium compounds.
🧪 Applications
In laboratories, it is used as a calcium ion source in analytical chemistry, buffer preparation, and precipitation reactions. In pharmaceutical contexts, it may be utilized where calcium supplementation or controlled nitrate delivery is required, under strict formulation standards. It is also used in the synthesis of other calcium-based compounds, ceramic materials, and biocompatible systems.
⚠️ Safety
Calcium nitrate tetrahydrate is generally considered low in toxicity but should still be handled with care. It can cause skin and eye irritation upon contact and may intensify fire when in contact with combustible materials due to its oxidizing nature. Use of gloves, safety goggles, and proper ventilation is recommended. It should be stored in a cool, dry place away from organic substances and reducing agents.
