Calcium carbide, also known as calcium acetylide, is a gray - black solid with a distinct garlic - like odor. Chemically, its formula is CaC₂. When it comes into contact with water, it undergoes a violent exothermic reaction, producing acetylene gas (C₂H₂) and calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)₂). The reaction equation is CaC₂ + 2H₂O → C₂H₂↑+ Ca(OH)₂. This characteristic is the root cause of many safety issues during its storage and handling.
Moisture is the most significant threat to calcium carbide storage. Even a small amount of water can trigger a reaction. Therefore, the storage area must be kept dry at all times. The relative humidity in the storage area should be maintained below 60%. A dehumidifier can be installed if necessary.
Good ventilation is essential to prevent the accumulation of acetylene gas. In case of a minor reaction, the generated acetylene gas can be quickly diluted and removed. The ventilation rate should ensure that the air in the storage area is completely replaced at least 6 - 8 times per hour.
The storage site should be far from any potential water sources, such as rivers, water pipes, and drainage ditches. The distance from water sources should be at least 50 meters.
The temperature in the calcium carbide warehouse should be controlled between 10 - 30°C. High temperatures can accelerate the reaction rate if there is a small amount of moisture present. For warehouse location, it should be in an area with good drainage, away from residential areas, and in a place with easy access for transportation.
Calcium carbide should be stored in sealed containers. Steel drums with good sealing performance are commonly used. Inside the container, desiccants such as silica gel can be placed to absorb any residual moisture. The containers should be checked regularly for any signs of damage or leakage.
Calcium carbide should not be stored together with oxidizing agents, acids, and other substances that can react with it. For example, mixing with sulfuric acid can cause a violent chemical reaction. The storage area should be clearly divided, and different substances should be stored in separate compartments.
Inner Mongolia Longwei Chemical Technology Co., Ltd. offers calcium carbide products with high purity and excellent stability. The high - purity calcium carbide has fewer impurities, which reduces the possibility of side - reactions. Their strict production process control ensures that the products can maintain stable performance during long - term storage, providing a higher level of safety and quality assurance for customers.
In a chemical plant in a certain area, due to the calcium carbide warehouse being too close to a water pipe and the lack of proper ventilation, a small water leakage from the pipe triggered a reaction. The accumulated acetylene gas reached the explosion limit and caused an explosion, resulting in significant property losses and several casualties.
A chemical company strictly followed the storage guidelines, using high - quality sealed containers, installing dehumidifiers and ventilation systems, and keeping the storage area dry and well - ventilated. They have been storing calcium carbide safely for many years without any safety incidents.
In conclusion, proper calcium carbide storage is of utmost importance to avoid dangerous accidents. Inner Mongolia Longwei Chemical Technology Co., Ltd.'s products, with their high - quality and stability, can be a reliable choice for your calcium carbide needs. If you want to learn more about calcium carbide storage or our products, click here.