Calcium Acetate

Calcium Acetate (CAS No. 114460-21-8) is a chemical compound with the formula Ca(C2H3O2)2. It is the calcium salt of acetic acid and appears as a white, crystalline solid that is highly soluble in water. Calcium Acetate is widely used in various industries, including pharmaceuticals, food, and chemical manufacturing, due to its versatile properties and applications. Below is a detailed overview of its uses, properties, and significance.

Chemical Properties

Calcium Acetate has a molecular weight of 158.17 g/mol and is composed of calcium ions (Ca²⁺) and acetate ions (C2H3O2⁻). It is hygroscopic, meaning it readily absorbs moisture from the environment. The compound is stable under normal conditions but decomposes upon heating, releasing acetic acid and leaving behind calcium carbonate or calcium oxide. Its solubility in water makes it useful in aqueous solutions and formulations.

Uses of Calcium Acetate

1. Pharmaceutical Industry:
   • Phosphate Binder: Calcium Acetate is primarily used as a phosphate binder in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). It helps reduce the absorption of dietary phosphate in the gastrointestinal tract, thereby controlling hyperphosphatemia (elevated phosphate levels in the blood).
   • Calcium Supplement: It is also used as a calcium supplement to prevent or treat calcium deficiency in individuals who cannot consume enough calcium through their diet.
2. Food Industry:
   • Preservative: Calcium Acetate is used as a preservative in food products to extend shelf life and prevent spoilage. It is particularly effective in baked goods, dairy products, and canned foods.
   • Stabilizer and Thickener: It acts as a stabilizer and thickener in various food products, improving texture and consistency.
   • Acidity Regulator: The compound is used to regulate acidity in foods and beverages, ensuring optimal flavor and stability.
3. Chemical Industry:
   • Catalyst: Calcium Acetate is used as a catalyst in organic synthesis and chemical reactions, particularly in the production of plastics and polymers.
   • Precursor for Other Compounds: It serves as a precursor for the synthesis of other calcium-based compounds, such as calcium carbonate and calcium oxide.
4. Textile Industry:
   • In the textile industry, Calcium Acetate is used as a mordant in dyeing processes. It helps fix dyes to fabrics, improving color fastness and durability.
5. Laboratory and Research:
   • Calcium Acetate is used in laboratories as a reagent for various chemical reactions and analytical procedures. It is also used in buffer solutions to maintain a stable pH.
6. Environmental Applications:
   • The compound is used in wastewater treatment to remove phosphates and other contaminants, helping to prevent environmental pollution.

Safety and Handling

Calcium Acetate is generally considered safe when handled properly, but it requires careful handling due to its chemical nature. Key safety considerations include:

• Toxicity: It is low in toxicity but may cause irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory system upon direct contact or inhalation.
• Ingestion: While it is safe for consumption in regulated amounts, excessive intake can lead to hypercalcemia (elevated calcium levels in the blood), which may cause nausea, vomiting, and other health issues.
• Storage: It should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from moisture and incompatible materials.

Personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves, goggles, and lab coats, should be worn when handling this compound. In case of accidental exposure, affected areas should be rinsed thoroughly with water, and medical attention should be sought if necessary.

Regulatory Status

Calcium Acetate is regulated under various safety and quality standards to ensure its safe use in pharmaceuticals, food, and industrial applications. It complies with guidelines set by organizations such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).

Conclusion

Calcium Acetate (CAS No. 114460-21-8) is a versatile chemical compound with significant applications in the pharmaceutical, food, chemical, and textile industries. Its role as a phosphate binder, preservative, stabilizer, and catalyst highlights its importance in modern industrial processes. Proper safety measures must be followed to ensure its safe handling and use. As with any chemical compound, understanding its properties and applications is essential for maximizing its benefits while minimizing risks. Its widespread use in healthcare and food production underscores its relevance in improving human health and quality of life.