Calcium Hydroxide Nanoparticles

Calcium Hydroxide Nanoparticles

A significant application of calcium hydroxide is as a flocculant in the treatment of water and wastewater. It forms a soft charged solid that helps remove smaller particles from the water, resulting in a lighter product. This application is possible thanks to the low cost and low toxicity of calcium hydroxide. It is also used in the treatment of freshwater to increase the pH of the water so that the pipes do not corrode where the base water is acidic since it is self-regulating and does not increase the pH too much.

Applications

Water and Wastewater Treatment:

pH Adjustment: Calcium hydroxide is commonly used in water treatment processes to adjust the pH of acidic water. When in nanoparticle form, it can more effectively neutralize acidic substances and help in the removal of heavy metals and other contaminants.

Flocculation: Ca(OH)₂ nanoparticles are used as a coagulant in water purification, helping to remove suspended solids and impurities by promoting flocculation.

Heavy Metal Removal: Calcium hydroxide nanoparticles are effective in removing heavy metals like lead, arsenic, and cadmium from contaminated water due to their ability to bind to and neutralize these harmful substances.

Environmental Remediation:

CO₂ Capture: Ca(OH)₂ nanoparticles can capture carbon dioxide from industrial flue gases, reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The high surface area of the nanoparticles allows for efficient CO₂ absorption, making them ideal for carbon sequestration technologies.

Pollutant Degradation: Due to their high reactivity, calcium hydroxide nanoparticles can be used in the degradation of organic pollutants and other toxic chemicals in contaminated soil or water.

Biomedical Applications:

Wound Healing: Calcium hydroxide nanoparticles are utilized in wound healing applications due to their antibacterial properties and ability to promote tissue regeneration. They are used in topical treatments for burns, cuts, and ulcers.

Drug Delivery: The biocompatibility and hydrophilicity of Ca(OH)₂ nanoparticles make them suitable for drug delivery systems. They can be used as carriers for controlled release of therapeutic agents, especially in cancer treatment and localized therapy.

Dental Applications: Calcium hydroxide nanoparticles are widely used in dentistry for root canal treatments and in dental materials due to their antibacterial properties and ability to stimulate mineralization of bone and tissue.

Agriculture:

Soil Amendment: Calcium hydroxide nanoparticles are used in agriculture to correct soil acidity. They act as a pH buffer and help to neutralize acidic soils, promoting healthy plant growth.