The products of calcination of limestone are calcium oxide (CaO) and carbon dioxide (CO2).
Explanation:
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Calcination Process: Calcination is a thermal treatment process applied to inorganic materials, such as limestone, at high temperatures to bring about a thermal decomposition. The process is typically carried out in a reactor or a furnace, where the material is heated to very high temperatures under controlled conditions.
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Reaction in Calcination of Limestone: The primary reaction occurring during the calcination of limestone is the decomposition of calcium carbonate (CaCO3) into calcium oxide (CaO), commonly known as lime, and carbon dioxide (CO2). This reaction can be represented by the following chemical equation: [ CaCO_3 \rightarrow CaO + CO_2 ] The high temperature is necessary to break the bonds in calcium carbonate, resulting in the release of carbon dioxide as a gas and leaving behind calcium oxide.
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Industrial Application: In the cement industry, limestone calcination is a crucial step in the production of clinker, which is the main component of cement. The process involves grinding the limestone to a fine powder and then heating it in a precalciner vessel to about 900 °C. This heating is sufficient to decarbonate approximately 90% of the limestone. The remaining material is then further heated in a rotary kiln to about 1500 °C, where it is fully converted into clinker. After cooling, the clinker is ground with gypsum to produce cement.
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Purpose of Calcination: The calcination of limestone is primarily done to remove volatile impurities and to convert the limestone into a form (calcium oxide) that is reactive and can be used in various industrial processes, such as the production of cement, steel, and glass. The release of carbon dioxide during this process is a significant source of greenhouse gases in industrial settings.
In summary, the calcination of limestone results in the production of calcium oxide and carbon dioxide, which are essential for various industrial applications, particularly in the production of cement.
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