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Chemistry, Properties, and Specifications

What is the recommended method for mixing solid calcium chloride with water to create solutions?

To create solutions using solid calcium chloride products and water, it is recommended to use cool water and add the solid calcium chloride slowly while continuously mixing. If the solids are allowed to sit motionless while in contact with water, a hard cake may form, which will be slow to dissolve. It’s worth noting that dissolving solid calcium chloride will result in a temperature increase, the degree of which will vary based on the specific application. For instance, dissolving DOWFLAKE™ Xtra 83-87% Calcium Chloride Flakes may cause a temperature increase of 2.8°F per percentage increase in concentration. Therefore, when preparing a 30% solution, the temperature can be expected to increase approximately 84°F (30 x 2.8°F = 84°F). To achieve solutions of various concentrations, you can utilize the Making Solutions Calculator tool provided.

What are the options for diluting a liquid calcium chloride solution to achieve a lower concentration, and is there a tool available to help with the process?

To reach a lower concentration target with a liquid calcium chloride solution, you have three different options for dilution: (1) dilute with water; (2) dilute with a lower concentration calcium chloride solution; or (3) dilute with both water and lower concentration calcium chloride solution. All three of these scenarios are covered in our Diluting Solutions Calculator tool, which is designed to make the process easier for you.

What is the pH level of an OxyChem calcium chloride solution, and why can it be difficult to obtain an accurate reading?

Obtaining an accurate and consistent pH measurement in concentrated salt solutions such as OxyChem calcium chloride products can be challenging. The results can vary significantly depending on the type of pH probe used and to what degree (if any) the solution is diluted before measurement. That being said, OxyChem calcium chloride products are somewhat alkaline, thanks to the presence of a small amount of calcium hydroxide impurity. If you take an undiluted sample of 35% solution, the pH reading should be around 9.

Is it possible to make solid calcium chloride usable again after it has caked, and what should I do if the caked product is too hard to break up?

If calcium chloride is stored in a way that allows it to come into contact with humid air, it may become caked. If the product is lightly caked, it can usually be broken up into a usable form by knocking the closed package against a hard surface, similar to breaking up a bag of ice from a convenience store. However, if the product is severely caked, this approach may not be effective. Using forceful hammering is not recommended, as flying chips of product could be hazardous, particularly to the eyes. If the caked product cannot be broken up into a usable form, it should be disposed of according to the guidance on the product label.

How can I obtain sales specifications for OxyChem calcium chloride products?

View sales specifications using the product links below.

Storage and Handling

What are the proper storage requirements for packages of solid calcium chloride?

Since solid calcium chloride is both hygroscopic and deliquescent, it can absorb moisture from the air and even turn into liquid brine. To maintain product quality while in storage, it’s important to protect solid calcium chloride from excessive moisture exposure. Packaged calcium chloride should be stored in a dry place and away from areas where product leakage could cause damage. It’s worth noting that some types of bags, such as valve closure bags, do not seal well if stored standing on end, so they should be stored lying flat. Opened packages should be resealed tightly after each use to prevent caking and liquid brine formation resulting from exposure to humid air.

Palletized product covered by an intact plastic shroud may be stored outdoors on a well-drained asphalt or concrete surface. However, if the shroud is torn, pierced, or removed, the palletized product should be stored indoors or under a waterproof covering. Products packaged in drums or FIBCs (also known as Super Sacks or Big Bags) are typically not shrouded, so they should be stored indoors or under a waterproof covering. Finally, it’s worth noting that solid calcium chloride is temperature-stable under all ambient storage conditions. For more information on handling and storage, you can refer to the Calcium Chloride: A Guide to Handling and Storage.

What are the recommended materials of construction for storing liquid calcium chloride solutions?

For large liquid storage tanks, the preferred material of construction is carbon steel with an epoxy-based interior coating and a high-quality coating on the exterior. Non-metallic materials such as fiberglass or plastic can work well for smaller tanks that store the product at ambient temperature. However, these materials are not as durable as carbon steel, and they lose strength at high temperatures. For more information on handling and storage, you can refer to the publication Calcium Chloride: A Guide to Handling and Storage.

How long can OxyChem's calcium chloride packaged product be stored before it expires?

OxyChem calcium chloride packaged products have an expected shelf life of 36 (thirty-six) months when stored correctly to protect from moisture contact.

Regulatory

What are the HMIS and NFPA ratings for OxyChem calcium chloride products?

HMIS is rated on a 1-4 scale using National Paint & Coatings Association HMIS: Rating Instructions, 2nd Edition as follows:
Health: 2
Flammability: 0
Reactivity: 0

NFPA 704 Hazard Identification Rating is on a 0-4 scale as follows:
Health: 1
Flammability: 0
Reactivity: 0

This information is provided in Section 16 of each Material Safety Data Sheet. View sheets for individual products by visiting the product pages below.

What are the recommended materials of construction for storing liquid calcium chloride solutions?

How long can OxyChem's calcium chloride packaged product be stored before it expires?

OxyChem calcium chloride packaged products have an expected shelf life of 36 (thirty-six) months when stored correctly to protect from moisture contact.

Does OxyChem have an EPA-approved calcium chloride product that can be used as an inert ingredient for pesticide formulations?

Yes, OxyChem’s DOWFLAKE™ Xtra 83-87% Calcium Chloride Flake is approved by the EPA as an inert ingredient for pesticide formulations. This approval includes uses such as a stabilizer in pesticide formulations for growing crops, raw agricultural commodities after harvest, and animals, as well as for non-food use pesticide product formulations. Additionally, this product can be used in antimicrobial pesticide formulations applied to dairy processing equipment and food processing equipment and utensils. Pesticide formulations for food processing equipment and utensils can use this product when the end-use concentration of the trade name product does not exceed 19.5 ppm. The approval reference is 40CFR 180.

Are OxyChem calcium chloride products compliant with the REACH (Registration, Evaluation and Authorization of Chemicals) requirements established by the European Union?

Yes, OxyChem is committed to complying with REACH, which is the EU regulatory system for chemicals management designed to protect the environment and preserve the future of the chemicals industry in Europe. OxyChem has successfully registered calcium chloride under REACH, and the company’s European Safety Data Sheets will reflect the registration numbers and exposure data required by REACH.

Sidewalk Ice Melting: Application Guidelines

What are the guidelines for using OxyChem calcium chloride products for deicing applications?

For optimal results, it is recommended to plow or shovel snow accumulations before spreading calcium chloride evenly using a cup, scoop, or spreader. Since calcium chloride is more effective than other ice melters, use only ¼ to ½ cup per square yard. A 50 lb bag should cover 1,750 to 3,500 square feet. Remove any melted ice/snow slush after application. It is best to apply calcium chloride shortly after snow begins to make snow removal easier and prevent ice buildup. If you need to remove thick ice, higher application rates may be required to penetrate and undercut the ice layer.

It’s important to note that OxyChem calcium chloride products are not recommended for deicing concrete that is less than one year old, precast steps, masonry (stone, brick, mortar joints), or existing concrete that has exposed aggregate, is precast, prestressed, chipped, cracked, spalled, or weathered. Additionally, calcium chloride is not recommended for deicing surfaces composed of wood or metal, and you should avoid contact with leather products. Using walkout mats can help prevent tracking snowmelt, slush, or any residual deicer onto interior floors made of hardwood, tile, stone, linoleum, or other hard surfaces, as these surfaces can become slippery when wet. Finally, be sure to avoid exceeding the recommended application rates, as overapplication can interfere with traction or footing. For more information, it is important to carefully read the entire product label.

Is liquid calcium chloride suitable for deicing sidewalks and parking lots?

Yes, liquid calcium chloride can be used for deicing thin layers of snow or ice on sidewalks and parking lots. However, it’s worth noting that liquid deicers have significantly less melt capacity than solid deicers, as they are already diluted with water. Therefore, they are best suited for use in anti-icing or pre-wetting applications. The most common concentration used in winter applications is 32%, which can be purchased directly from a LIQUIDOW™ distributor or by dissolving solid calcium chloride products in water according to instructions provided.

It’s important to apply the appropriate liquid application rate, which can vary depending on weather conditions, surface type, amount of snow/ice present, and other factors. Over-application or application onto a contaminated surface may result in slickness. If a liquid deicer is applied to a surface under humid conditions before a winter storm event, it may absorb enough moisture from the air to dilute to a concentration that will freeze as the temperature drops, possibly resulting in slickness. Since conditions that affect application rate vary significantly from situation to situation, it’s the responsibility of each end-user to determine the liquid application rate best suited for their particular situation.

Sidewalk Ice Melting: Usage on Specific Surfaces or Areas

Is it safe to use calcium chloride ice melt products to remove ice dams on my roof?

We recommend hiring a trained professional to treat ice dam-related problems and investigate insulation and attic ventilation best practices that may prevent ice dams. However, there are ice melt products available on the market designed to be thrown onto the roof where ice dams have built up to create channels that allow melting snow to drain off the roof. Most common ice melt products contain chlorides, including hygroscopic (moisture-attracting) products like calcium chloride and magnesium chloride, which are very effective in melting ice. It’s important to be aware of the risks involved and take precautions to maintain proper drainage, as water from melting ice can corrode roofing nails and steel gutters, and could get under shingles, potentially damaging wood products. Additionally, hygroscopic ice melt products may cause water to evaporate at a slower rate and remain damp longer than naturally melting water. You should also prevent the water from draining directly onto vegetation, including shrubs, bushes, and evergreens.

Can I use calcium chloride products for deicing wood surfaces?

OxyChem does not recommend using calcium chloride products for deicing wood surfaces. The variety of wood treatments that could be used on exterior wood surfaces makes it difficult to predict the effect of calcium chloride deicers on those surfaces. Calcium chloride could potentially soak into untreated and some treated wood surfaces, resulting in damp spots that may be difficult to remove. Therefore, it’s best to avoid using calcium chloride deicers on wood surfaces.

Can deicing with calcium chloride products cause damage to my concrete surfaces?

OxyChem calcium chloride products are recommended for deicing asphalt and concrete surfaces that have been designed and constructed for winter weather conditions and deicer usage. These products will not chemically attack asphalt or concrete. However, meltwater from the deicing process may soak into porous concrete and re-freeze, creating pressure within the concrete structure. If the concrete lacks the strength to withstand this pressure, it may spall or scale. Concrete that is air-entrained, mixed, placed, and cured according to the recommendations of the American Concrete Institute Committee 201 is resistant to scaling damage. OxyChem calcium chloride products are not recommended for deicing concrete that is less than one year old, precast steps, masonry (stone, brick, mortar joints), or existing concrete that has exposed aggregate, is precast, prestressed, chipped, cracked, spalled, or weathered.

Can calcium chloride be used on stone surfaces for deicing?

Calcium chloride is not known to chemically attack stone under typical application conditions. However, if the stone is porous, meltwater created during deicing may soak into pores or cracks, subjecting the stone to possible freeze-thaw damage. This type of damage is possible under certain conditions because meltwater trapped in pores or cracks may re-freeze, creating a large amount of pressure beneath the surface of the stone. If the structure of the stone is not strong enough to withstand this pressure, the stone will flake or powder. This type of damage depends on the porosity and strength of the stone, not on the type of deicer used to melt snow and ice.

Because there are many different kinds and grades of stone, OxyChem generally does not recommend using calcium chloride deicers for applications on masonry (stone, brick and mortar joints).

What is the risk of using chloride-based deicers on concrete structures like bridges and parking garages?

Chloride ions from deicing salts can seep into porous concrete and cause corrosion on unprotected steel reinforcement (rebar) embedded in concrete, leading to rust formation, cracking, spalling, and delamination. This can result in serious structural problems, and each end user should consult with experts in concrete construction technology to determine whether the use of chloride-based deicers is appropriate for their situation.

Are calcium chloride-based deicers “pet-friendly”?

Please review the OxyChem document, Use of Chloride Deicers Around Pets.

Is calcium chloride safe for use near grassy areas and other vegetation?

Under typical applications conditions, calcium chloride will not damage grass or vegetation adjacent to a surface being deiced. However, it is possible for grass to be damaged if the chloride-based deicer is over-applied or large quantities are directly applied to the grass or vegetation. Therefore, it is recommended to use calcium chloride deicers in moderation and to avoid over-application. Additionally, it is important to prevent the deicer from draining directly onto vegetation, including shrubs, bushes, and evergreens.

Sidewalk Ice Melting: Considerations

What steps can be taken to prevent slipperiness on indoor hard surfaces caused by snowmelt, slush, and residual deicer being tracked in?

To prevent slipperiness on indoor hard surfaces caused by snowmelt, slush, and residual deicer being tracked in, it is important to follow the directions on the product label for proper deicer use and avoid over-application, especially near entryways. Effective entrance mats should be used to absorb and trap snowmelt, slush, or residual deicer. Any residual deicer tracked onto hard floors should be cleaned up as soon as possible with warm, fresh water by wiping the surface with a mop or towel and drying it thoroughly. If a bucket is used for rinsing the mop or towel, the water should be changed frequently for best results.

What are the recommendations for cleaning carpets that have been tracked with dirt, grime and residual deicer?

The recommended cleaning procedure for carpets that have been tracked with deicer, dirt, and grime involves a multi-step process that eliminates both the deicer and any dirt or oils that have also been tracked in and deposited on the carpet. The cleaning process usually includes a pH neutral detergent wash followed by hot water extraction. For more details, refer to the resource “Carpet Care and Use of Deicers“.

Road Improvement: Considerations

Does the use of calcium chloride for dust control cause vehicle corrosion?

It is unlikely that the use of calcium chloride for dust control will cause noticeable corrosion on vehicles. The application rate is typically low, and the calcium chloride tends to remain in the road bed rather than coming into contact with passing vehicles. If there is any suspicion of contact with calcium chloride, a basic wash of the vehicle will remove the highly soluble salt.

Can calcium chloride used for dust control harm grass and other vegetation in the surrounding area?

When applied under typical conditions, calcium chloride is not likely to cause damage to grass or vegetation near the road surface where it is used for dust control. However, over-application or direct application to grass or vegetation can cause damage, similar to fertilizer or other dust control chemicals.

Is liquid magnesium chloride lower in chloride and safer for the environment than calcium chloride?

No, the chloride content of a liquid material is determined by the concentration of the solution and the molecular weight of the salt. Although magnesium chloride is commercially available in 30% solutions, it has a similar chloride content to a 35% calcium chloride solution. Research has shown that the impact of magnesium chloride is no less than other chlorides. The application rate of the product is also important in determining environmental impact. While magnesium chloride is often used for dust control, LIQUIDOW™, which is a calcium chloride product, is typically applied at higher concentrations and may require less material to achieve the same result. Environment Canada recommends an application rate of 1.4 to 2.3 liters per square meter of magnesium chloride to achieve the same dust suppression capability as calcium chloride applied at a rate of 0.9 to 1.6 liters per square meter. The USDA Forest Service found that a magnesium chloride application rate of 0.30 to 0.50 gallons per square yard was necessary to achieve the same dust suppression performance as 0.20 to 0.35 gallons per square yard of calcium chloride.

Road Improvement: Application Guidelines

Can calcium chloride be used for deicing on roofs?

While calcium chloride can be effective in melting ice and snow on roofs, its use is not recommended for several reasons. First, calcium chloride can be corrosive and can damage roofing materials, including shingles and metal flashing. Second, the runoff from calcium chloride can damage vegetation and harm animals if it enters the local water supply. Finally, the weight of the ice melt products and the water they produce can add additional weight to the roof, potentially causing structural damage. It is recommended that a trained professional be consulted for ice dam-related problems, and that proper insulation and attic ventilation be installed to prevent ice dams from forming in the first place.

Highway Ice Melting: Considerations

What is the impact of using calcium chloride products for deicing on concrete surfaces?

When used according to the product label directions, calcium chloride products for deicing are not expected to chemically attack or damage properly constructed and designed concrete or asphalt surfaces. However, water from the deicing process may seep into porous concrete and re-freeze, leading to internal pressure that can cause spalling or scaling of the concrete if it lacks the necessary strength. To reduce the likelihood of scaling damage, concrete should be mixed, placed, and cured according to recommendations by the American Concrete Institute Committee 201 and include air-entrainment.

How does the corrosiveness of calcium chloride compare to that of other deicers?

Corrosion is a complex issue and there is no one-size-fits-all answer. However, it is generally known that bare metal exposed to chloride will experience an increased rate of corrosion. In terms of corrosion performance between chloride-based deicers, including rock salt (sodium chloride), magnesium chloride and calcium chloride, there is little difference. While some vendors may claim that one product is “less corrosive” than another based on lab tests, these tests often do not accurately represent real-world performance. Non-chloride deicers are less corrosive than chloride-based ones, but their deicing performance is relatively weak and they can also be associated with corrosion problems in certain situations.

Can the use of chloride-based deicers lead to damage in concrete structures, such as bridges and parking garages, through the corrosion of rebar?

Yes, it is possible for chloride-based deicers to cause damage to concrete structures by corroding the rebar. Chloride ions from deicing salts can penetrate porous concrete, and when they come into contact with the surface of unprotected rebar, corrosion can occur. This can result in rust formation on the rebar, which puts pressure on the concrete and may cause cracking, spalling, and delamination. Loss of the bond between concrete and the reinforcing steel, as well as the loss of cross-sectional area of the rebar, can cause serious structural problems. However, companies and trade organizations with expertise in concrete construction technology are aware of options available for corrosion protection in new or rehabilitated structures. With support from these experts, each end user can determine whether the use of chloride-based deicers is appropriate for their specific situation.

Is calcium chloride safe for use near grassy areas and other vegetation?

Calcium chloride is generally safe for use near grassy areas and other vegetation when applied in typical conditions. However, it is possible for grass and vegetation to be damaged if the chloride-based deicer is over-applied or large quantities are directly applied to them. In addition, when used on highways, any chloride-based deicer can create chloride-containing mist from high-speed tire action that may potentially damage roadside conifers.

For more information on the effect of deicers on vegetation, refer to: A Review of Deicers and their Effect on Vegetation.

Other Applications: Food and Beverage

How can I obtain a kosher certificate for food-grade calcium chloride products from OxyChem?

You can obtain a copy of the current kosher certificate for all OxyChem food grade calcium chloride products by visiting their website and downloading it from the provided link.

Are there any certifications available for food grade calcium chloride products, such as allergen, GMO, or others?

Yes, certifications are available for OxyChem food grade calcium chloride products. For specific information regarding allergen, GMO, and other certifications, please contact the company for details.

Are OxyChem’s food grade calcium chloride product facilities audited?

Yes, OxyChem’s facilities in Ludington, Michigan that manufacture and package food grade calcium chloride products are audited annually for Good Manufacturing Practices and Food Safety Systems by an independent auditor. For more information, please contact OxyChem.

Is nutritional information available for food grade calcium chloride products?

Yes. Please refer to Product Information Sheets available for the following food grade products:

Are OxyChem calcium chloride products certified for use in drinking water treatment?

OxyChem produces a variety of calcium chloride products that are used in many different applications, including water treatment. However, OxyChem calcium chloride products are not certified per NSF/ANSI 60, Drinking Water Treatment Chemicals; or NSF/ANSI 61, Drinking Water System Components. For additional information, please Contact Us.

Does OxyChem have a calcium chloride product recommended for use in drinking water applications?

No, OxyChem does not have a calcium chloride product recommended for use in drinking water applications due to the presence of impurity bromide. Bromide can react with oxidizers used for water sterilization to form bromate, which can lead to violations of drinking water standards in many countries.

Other Applications: Concrete

What are the best practices for using calcium chloride as an accelerating admixture in concrete?

It is recommended that the amount of calcium chloride used as an accelerating admixture in concrete should not exceed 2%, and the application rates should vary with temperature. The addition rate specific recommendations can be found in the document Calcium Chloride in Portland Cement Concrete. Calcium chloride should preferably be added in solution form to aggregates in the mixer drum or as a portion of the mixing water. If the concrete will be discharged within one hour of the start of mixing, calcium chloride should be added at the ready mix plant. Otherwise, it should be added at the job site, and mixing should continue for at least three minutes or 30 revolutions of the mixer, whichever is longer. If dry calcium chloride is used, it should be free of lumps and added to aggregates in the mixer drum before mixing or to the mixed concrete just before discharge.

Are there any restrictions on using calcium chloride as a concrete accelerating admixture due to potential corrosion issues with reinforcing steel?

Yes, there are restrictions on the use of calcium chloride as a concrete accelerating admixture in certain exposure conditions that may cause corrosion issues with reinforcing steel. The most recent reports from the American Concrete Institute (ACI) committees, including ACI 201 Durability of Concrete, ACI 212 Admixtures for Concrete, ACI 222 Corrosion of Metals in Concrete, and ACI 306 Cold Weather Concreting, provide information on the permissible amounts of calcium chloride in concrete and the conditions where it should not be used. It is recommended to consult these reports for detailed information on the use of calcium chloride in concrete.

Other Applications: Pool and Spa

Is it possible to use OxyChem calcium chloride products to adjust the calcium hardness in pool and spa water?

Yes, it is possible to use OxyChem calcium chloride products to adjust calcium hardness in pool and spa water. However, it is important to note that solid calcium chloride manufactured by OxyChem contains approximately 6000–8500 ppm bromide, which can potentially react with other pool chemicals to form unwanted disinfection by-products. While the presence of bromide in pool and spa water is not uncommon, users should be aware of this potential interaction. For more information about the use of calcium chloride in pool and spa water treatment applications, please refer to the publication provided by OxyChem.

Other Applications: Pool and Spa

How can calcium chloride be used to freeze-proof water-filled containers?

Technical grades of solid and liquid calcium chloride can be added to water-filled containers to prevent freezing, such as in traffic barriers. The concentration needed depends on the desired level of freeze protection, and the freeze point of the solution will vary with concentration. The amount of dry calcium chloride needed to create a desired solution concentration can be calculated using a solution calculator tool.

Wt %	Sp Gr.	lbs/gal	Freeze Pt.
16%	1.149	9.55	+8°F
20%	1.189	9.88	-4°F
24%	1.228	10.20	-20°F
28%	1.275	10.60	-46°F
32%	1.322	10.99	17°F