Industrial Grade Hydrated Lime – Versatile Solutions for Manufacturing and Processing
Industrial grade hydrated lime is a workhorse chemical in US manufacturing, serving critical functions across a remarkably diverse range of industries. From chemical production and petroleum refining to steel manufacturing and food processing, industrial grade hydrated lime enables efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally responsible manufacturing operations.
Understanding Industrial Grade Hydrated Lime
Industrial grade hydrated lime is produced to meet the specifications of ASTM C911, which covers lime and limestone products suitable for chemical and industrial uses. These applications include waste acid neutralization, agricultural liming, soil stabilization, asphalt, flue gas desulfurization, drinking water softening, waste and wastewater neutralization, and wastewater treatment plant residuals stabilization.
Key Industrial Applications
Chemical Manufacturing
Hydrated lime is used in the production of calcium salts, including calcium carbonate, calcium chloride, and calcium nitrate. It serves as a pH regulator, precipitant, and reactant in numerous chemical processes.
Petroleum Refining
Lime is used in petroleum refining for pH control, water treatment, and emissions control.
Steel Manufacturing
The steel industry is a significant consumer of lime products, including hydrated lime.
Pulp and Paper
Lime is used in the pulp and paper industry for chemical recovery, bleaching, and pH control.
Food Processing
Food grade hydrated lime is used in food processing applications, including pH adjustment and as a processing aid.
Environmental Applications
Waste Acid Neutralization
Hydrated lime is widely used for neutralizing acidic waste streams from industrial processes.
Biosolids Stabilization
Lime is used to stabilize wastewater treatment plant residuals, reducing pathogens and odors.
Soil Remediation
Lime is used in the remediation of contaminated soils, including heavy metal stabilization.
Flue Gas Treatment
Industrial grade lime is used for flue gas desulfurization and acid gas control.
ASTM Standards for Industrial Lime
| Standard | Title | Application |
|---|---|---|
| ASTM C911 | Lime for Chemical and Industrial Uses | General industrial specifications |
| ASTM D6249 | Alkaline Stabilization of Wastewater Residuals | Biosolids treatment |
Industrial Applications by Sector
| Industry | Key Applications |
|---|---|
| Chemical Manufacturing | Calcium salts production, pH control |
| Petroleum Refining | Water treatment, emissions control |
| Steel Manufacturing | Flux, slag conditioning |
| Pulp and Paper | Chemical recovery, bleaching |
| Food Processing | pH adjustment, processing aid |
| Environmental | Acid neutralization, biosolids stabilization |
Quality Considerations
Purity
Industrial grade hydrated lime must meet specified purity requirements for consistent performance.
Reactivity
High reactivity lime is required for some applications, including flue gas treatment.
Particle Size
Particle size distribution affects reactivity and handling characteristics.
Supply Chain Considerations
Domestic Production
The US has significant domestic lime production capacity, with an estimated 16 million tons of quicklime and hydrated lime produced in 2024.
Major Producers
Key producers include Lhoist Group, Carmeuse, Graymont, and Mississippi Lime Company.
Future Outlook
Industrial grade hydrated lime is expected to maintain steady demand as US manufacturing continues to grow and environmental regulations drive the adoption of lime-based treatment technologies.
