Calcium peroxide

Calcium peroxide is a solid peroxide with formula CaO2. It is pale yellow, white or colorless compound which can be found in nature as the mineral octahedrite. It is used in agriculture, food industry, and environmental applications.

Chemical Properties

Calcium peroxide is a solid peroxide with a white or yellowish color. It is insoluble in water and alcohol, but soluble in acid, presenting a strong oxidizing property. It decomposes slowly in moist air, is stable under normal conditions and can be stored at room temperature.

Production

Calcium peroxide is produced industrially by the reaction of calcium oxide with hydrogen peroxide. It can also be produced by the oxidation of calcium sulfate.

Applications

Calcium peroxide has a variety of applications in a number of industries.

Agriculture

In agriculture, it is used as a soil conditioner and fertilizer to stimulate the growth of aerobic bacteria in the soil. It helps to break down complex organic compounds, improving the soil's fertility and crop yield.

Food Industry

In the food industry, calcium peroxide is used as a dough conditioner and flour bleaching agent. It is also used in the production of certain types of cheese.

Environmental Applications

Calcium peroxide is used in environmental applications for the remediation of soil and groundwater. It is used to treat contaminated soil and water by releasing oxygen to stimulate the growth of oxygen-dependent bacteria that can break down the contaminants.

Safety

Calcium peroxide is a strong oxidizer and can cause burns to skin and eyes. It can also cause respiratory irritation if inhaled. Proper safety measures should be taken when handling this chemical.

See Also

• Calcium oxide
• Hydrogen peroxide
• Calcium sulfate

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