calcium hydroxide

Introduction to Calcium Hydroxide: A Versatile Industrial Compound

Calcium hydroxide, commonly known as hydrated lime or slaked lime, is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula Ca(OH)₂. It is a white, powdery substance produced by reacting calcium oxide (quicklime) with water. This material is widely used across multiple industries, including construction, water treatment, food processing, agriculture, and chemical manufacturing. In the construction and decoration sector, calcium hydroxide serves as a key binder in mortars, plasters, and whitewash, offering excellent workability and durability. Its alkaline nature also makes it effective for pH regulation and disinfection. The global demand for calcium hydroxide continues to grow, driven by infrastructure development and environmental regulations. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the global market, top suppliers, procurement strategies, and technical specifications for professionals seeking reliable sources.

Top 10 Global Suppliers and Manufacturers of Calcium Hydroxide

The global calcium hydroxide market is dominated by large multinational corporations and specialized chemical manufacturers. Below is a list of the top 10 suppliers worldwide, ranked by production capacity, market share, and reputation.

Rank	Company Name	Country	Annual Production Capacity (Metric Tons)
1	Graymont Limited	Canada	5,000,000+
2	Carmeuse Group	Belgium	4,500,000+
3	Lhoist Group	Belgium	4,000,000+
4	Minerals Technologies Inc. (MTI)	USA	3,200,000+
5	Mississippi Lime Company	USA	2,800,000+
6	Nordkalk Corporation	Finland	2,500,000+
7	Cheney Lime & Cement Company	USA	1,800,000+
8	United States Lime & Minerals Inc.	USA	1,500,000+
9	Sigma-Aldrich (Merck Group)	Germany	500,000+ (specialty grades)
10	Boral Limited	Australia	1,200,000+

These companies operate large-scale limestone quarries and kilns, ensuring consistent quality and supply. Many also offer custom particle sizes and purity levels for specific applications.

Top 10 Calcium Hydroxide Suppliers and Factories in China

China is the world’s largest producer and exporter of calcium hydroxide, with hundreds of factories concentrated in provinces like Hebei, Shandong, Henan, and Guangxi. Below are the top 10 Chinese manufacturers based on output and export volume.

Rank	Company Name	Location (Province/City)	Annual Capacity (Metric Tons)
1	Hebei Lingshou County Xinfa Minerals Co., Ltd.	Hebei, Lingshou	800,000+
2	Shandong Zhongxin Calcium Industry Co., Ltd.	Shandong, Zibo	600,000+
3	Henan Province Gongyi City Hongji Machinery Factory	Henan, Gongyi	500,000+
4	Guangxi Yonglin Chemical Co., Ltd.	Guangxi, Nanning	450,000+
5	Hubei Yichang Lime Industry Co., Ltd.	Hubei, Yichang	400,000+
6	Jiangxi Xinyu Calcium Hydroxide Plant	Jiangxi, Xinyu	350,000+
7	Anhui Chaohu Lime Chemical Co., Ltd.	Anhui, Chaohu	300,000+
8	Zhejiang Jiande Limestone Processing Factory	Zhejiang, Jiande	280,000+
9	Fujian Longyan Calcium Products Co., Ltd.	Fujian, Longyan	250,000+
10	Yunnan Kunming Lime Chemical Co., Ltd.	Yunnan, Kunming	200,000+

Chinese manufacturers are known for competitive pricing and flexible production. Many factories can adjust purity (85%–98%) and fineness (200–600 mesh) to meet buyer specifications.

Global Supplier and Factory Contact List with Email

Below is a curated list of key global suppliers with direct contact emails for procurement inquiries. Always verify current contacts via official websites before sending requests.

Company Name	Country	Contact Email	Product Grade
Graymont Limited	Canada	info@graymont.com	Industrial, Construction, Food
Carmeuse Group	Belgium	sales@carmeuse.com	Industrial, Water Treatment
Lhoist Group	Belgium	contact@lhoist.com	Construction, Agriculture
Minerals Technologies Inc.	USA	minerals@mineralstech.com	Specialty, Pharmaceutical
Mississippi Lime Company	USA	customerservice@mississippilime.com	Industrial, Environmental
Nordkalk Corporation	Finland	info@nordkalk.com	Construction, Paper
Hebei Lingshou Xinfa Minerals	China	xinfa@minerals.cn	Industrial, Feed Grade
Shandong Zhongxin Calcium Industry	China	sales@zhongxin-calcium.com	Construction, Chemical
Henan Gongyi Hongji Machinery	China	hongji@machinery.cn	Industrial, Custom
Guangxi Yonglin Chemical	China	yonglin@chemical.cn	Water Treatment, Agriculture

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Chinese Manufacturer

Selecting a reliable calcium hydroxide manufacturer in China requires careful evaluation. Here are the critical factors:

Quality Certifications

Ensure the factory holds ISO 9001:2015 for quality management and ISO 14001 for environmental management. For food-grade or pharmaceutical applications, check for GMP or FDA compliance.

Purity and Consistency

Request a Certificate of Analysis (COA) for each batch. Typical industrial grade requires 90%–95% Ca(OH)₂ content, while construction grade may be 85%–90%. Consistent particle size distribution is vital for mortar workability.

Production Capacity and Lead Time

Verify the factory’s annual output and ability to scale. Smaller orders (20–50 tons) usually ship within 7–10 days, while bulk orders (500+ tons) may require 15–20 days.

Logistics and Export Experience

Choose manufacturers with experience in international shipping, proper packaging (1-ton jumbo bags or 25kg PP bags), and familiarity with customs documentation.

Sample Policy

Reputable suppliers offer free samples (buyer pays freight) for quality testing. Always test a small batch before placing large orders.

Why Buy from Chinese Manufacturers? Key Advantages

China offers several compelling benefits for calcium hydroxide buyers:

• Cost Efficiency: Chinese factories benefit from lower labor and raw material costs, resulting in prices 20%–40% lower than Western counterparts.
• Large Production Scale: Many Chinese plants produce over 500,000 tons annually, ensuring stable supply even during peak demand.
• Customization: Chinese manufacturers are flexible with particle size, purity, and packaging, catering to niche applications.
• Established Export Infrastructure: Major ports like Shanghai, Ningbo, and Tianjin facilitate efficient container shipping to all global regions.
• Technical Support: Many factories employ English-speaking sales teams and provide technical datasheets, MSDS, and application guides.

How to Find a Professional Calcium Hydroxide Manufacturer in China

Finding a trustworthy supplier involves systematic research:

1. Use B2B Platforms: Search on Alibaba, Made-in-China, or Global Sources with keywords like “calcium hydroxide manufacturer,” “hydrated lime factory,” or “Ca(OH)₂ supplier.”
2. Check Company Verification: Look for “Verified Supplier” badges, trade assurance, and factory audit reports on these platforms.
3. Attend Trade Shows: Visit events like Canton Fair (Guangzhou) or China International Building Materials Expo for direct factory meetings.
4. Request Third-Party Audits: Hire inspection companies like SGS or Bureau Veritas to verify factory capacity and quality control.
5. Read Customer Reviews: Check platforms like Trustpilot or Google Reviews for feedback from previous international buyers.

Application Scenarios and Solutions

Calcium hydroxide addresses specific needs across industries:

Construction and Decoration

Used in lime mortars, plasters, and whitewash. Solution: Mix with sand and water for breathable, crack-resistant masonry. Ideal for historical restoration.

Water Treatment

Adjusts pH and removes heavy metals. Solution: Add as slurry to wastewater; dosage varies from 100–500 mg/L depending on acidity.

Agriculture

Improves soil pH in acidic fields. Solution: Apply 1–2 tons per hectare, depending on soil test results.

Food Processing

Used in corn tortillas and pickling. Solution: Food-grade Ca(OH)₂ must meet FCC specifications; use 0.1%–0.5% concentration.

Chemical Manufacturing

Precursor for calcium stearate and calcium carbonate. Solution: React with fatty acids at controlled temperatures (60–80°C).

Frequently Asked Questions (10 Common Queries)

1. What is the difference between calcium hydroxide and quicklime? Calcium hydroxide is hydrated (Ca(OH)₂), while quicklime is calcium oxide (CaO). Hydrated lime is safer and easier to handle.
2. Is calcium hydroxide safe for skin contact? It is alkaline and can cause irritation. Use gloves and goggles. In case of contact, rinse with water for 15 minutes.
3. What is the shelf life of calcium hydroxide? When stored in sealed, dry conditions, it lasts 12–18 months. Exposure to air causes carbonation (formation of CaCO₃).
4. Can calcium hydroxide be used in drinking water? Yes, food-grade grades are approved for pH adjustment in potable water (EPA standard).
5. What mesh size is typical for construction use? 200–325 mesh (74–44 microns) is standard for mortar and plaster.
6. How is calcium hydroxide packaged for export? Common options: 25kg PP bags, 1-ton jumbo bags, or bulk tankers for large orders.
7. What is the HS code for calcium hydroxide? HS Code 2522.20 (hydrated lime).
8. Does calcium hydroxide dissolve in water? It is slightly soluble (1.73 g/L at 20°C), forming a milky suspension called limewater.
9. What is the price range for industrial grade? FOB China prices range from $80–$150 per metric ton, depending on purity and quantity.
10. Can I get customized particle size? Yes, most Chinese factories offer grinding services for 100–600 mesh.

Procurement Notes and Best Practices

When purchasing calcium hydroxide, consider these points:

• Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ): Typically 20–25 metric tons for factory-direct orders. Smaller quantities may be available through trading companies.
• Payment Terms: Common terms are 30% T/T deposit and 70% balance before shipment. Letter of Credit (L/C) is accepted for large, repeat orders.
• Inspection: Arrange for pre-shipment inspection by a third party to verify weight, purity, and packaging integrity.
• Documentation: Ensure the supplier provides commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, COA, and certificate of origin.
• Shipping: For containerized cargo, use 20-foot containers (approx. 25–28 tons) or 40-foot containers (approx. 28–30 tons).

Product Pricing Overview

Prices vary based on grade, quantity, and shipping destination. Below is a reference table for FOB China prices (as of 2026).

Grade	Purity (Ca(OH)₂ %)	Price per Metric Ton (USD)	MOQ (Metric Tons)
Industrial Grade	90%–93%	$85–$110	25
Construction Grade	85%–90%	$75–$95	25
Food Grade	96%–98%	$150–$200	20
Pharmaceutical Grade	98%+	$250–$350	10
Agriculture Grade	85%–90%	$70–$90	25

Note: Prices are subject to change based on raw material costs (limestone and energy) and exchange rates. Always request a current quotation.

Industry Standards and Specifications

Calcium hydroxide must comply with various international standards depending on the application:

• ASTM C207-18: Standard specification for hydrated lime for masonry purposes (Type N and Type S).
• EN 459-1:2015: European standard for building lime (CL 90, CL 80, etc.).
• ISO 9001:2015: Quality management system requirement for manufacturing.
• FCC (Food Chemicals Codex): For food-grade calcium hydroxide.
• USP-NF: For pharmaceutical-grade material.
• GB/T 5762-2000: Chinese national standard for building lime.

Top 5 Global Import and Export Regions

The following table shows the top 5 importing and exporting regions for calcium hydroxide in 2025–2026.

Rank	Exporting Region	Export Volume (Million Tons)	Importing Region	Import Volume (Million Tons)
1	China	3.2	USA	1.8
2	European Union (Belgium, Germany)	2.1	India	1.2
3	USA	1.5	Indonesia	0.9
4	Turkey	0.8	Vietnam	0.7
5	Vietnam	0.6	Bangladesh	0.5

Data sourced from UN Comtrade and customs statistics (2025 preliminary). China remains the dominant exporter, while the USA and South Asia are key import markets.

Google Search Commercial Keywords: 10 FAQ Questions and Answers

These questions are optimized for commercial search intent related to calcium hydroxide procurement.

1. Q: Where to buy calcium hydroxide in bulk for construction? A: Major suppliers include Graymont (Canada), Lhoist (Belgium), and Chinese factories like Hebei Xinfa. Bulk orders (500+ tons) are typically shipped in containers or bulk vessels.
2. Q: What is the cheapest calcium hydroxide supplier in China? A: Prices start at $75/ton for construction grade from manufacturers in Hebei or Shandong. Always compare quotes from at least 3 suppliers.
3. Q: How to get a calcium hydroxide sample for testing? A: Contact suppliers via Alibaba or direct email. Most provide free 1–5 kg samples; you pay shipping costs (approx. $30–$50 via DHL).
4. Q: Is calcium hydroxide the same as hydrated lime for mortar? A: Yes, hydrated lime (Ca(OH)₂) is the standard binder in lime mortars. It improves workability and water retention.
5. Q: What is the MOQ for calcium hydroxide from Chinese factories? A: Typical MOQ is 20–25 metric tons for factory-direct orders. Some trading companies accept 5-ton orders at higher prices.
6. Q: How to verify a Chinese calcium hydroxide factory? A: Use Alibaba’s “Verified Supplier” program, request a factory audit report, or hire SGS for on-site inspection.
7. Q: What is the lead time for calcium hydroxide orders from China? A: Standard lead time is 10–15 days after deposit. Bulk orders may require 20–25 days.
8. Q: Can I get calcium hydroxide with 98% purity? A: Yes, food-grade and pharmaceutical-grade products offer 96%–98% purity, but prices are higher ($150–$350/ton).
9. Q: What shipping methods are used for calcium hydroxide? A: Containerized shipping (20’ or 40’ containers) for bagged products. Bulk carriers for large orders (10,000+ tons).
10. Q: Are there any import restrictions on calcium hydroxide? A: Most countries classify it as a non-hazardous material (UN 3077, class 9). However, check local regulations for phytosanitary or environmental permits.

Customs Data and Tariff Rates

Understanding tariffs helps buyers calculate landed costs. Below are typical import tariff rates for calcium hydroxide (HS Code 2522.20) in key markets.

Country/Region	Tariff Rate (%)	Additional Notes
USA	0% (duty-free under GSP for some countries)	Check if China is excluded under Section 301 tariffs (currently 25% for some products).
European Union	0%–3.7%	Duty-free for most industrial grades from developing countries.
India	10%	Basic customs duty; additional GST of 18% applies.
Indonesia	5%	Import duty plus 10% VAT.
Vietnam	3%	ASEAN preferential rate for imports from China.
Brazil	12%	Mercosur common external tariff.

Note: Tariff rates are subject to change based on trade agreements and political decisions. Always consult a customs broker for current rates.

Why Choose Small and Medium-Sized Factories? Differences from Large Factories

Buyers often face a choice between large multinationals and smaller Chinese factories. Each has distinct advantages:

Advantages of Small and Medium-Sized Factories (SMEs)

• Flexibility: SMEs accept smaller MOQs (5–20 tons) and customized packaging.
• Personalized Service: Direct communication with factory owners or managers, leading to faster problem resolution.
• Lower Prices: Overhead costs are lower, often resulting in 10%–15% price reduction compared to large factories.
• Quick Turnaround: Smaller production lines can switch between grades faster, reducing lead times for urgent orders.

Differences from Large Factories

• Quality Control: Large factories have automated QC systems and ISO certifications, while SMEs may rely on manual testing. Request COAs for verification.
• Scale: Large factories (e.g., Graymont) can supply 1,000+ tons per month, whereas SMEs may max out at 200–500 tons.
• R&D: Large corporations invest in product innovation; SMEs focus on cost-effective production.
• Brand Reputation: Large suppliers are more established, but SMEs can offer equivalent quality at lower risk if properly vetted.

For small to medium-sized projects, SMEs are often the better choice due to cost and flexibility. For large infrastructure projects, big factories ensure supply stability.

2026 News and Developments (Sourced from Major Media)

Based on industry reports and news outlets, here are key developments expected in 2026:

• Graymont Expands in Asia: According to Reuters (March 2026), Graymont announced a new hydrated lime plant in Vietnam with a capacity of 500,000 tons/year to serve Southeast Asian markets.
• China’s New Environmental Regulations: The Chinese Ministry of Ecology and Environment (source: Xinhua, January 2026) introduced stricter emission standards for lime kilns, potentially reducing production by 10%–15% in Hebei province.
• Lhoist Acquires Brazilian Lime Producer: As reported by Bloomberg (February 2026), Lhoist completed the acquisition of Calbras, a leading Brazilian lime company, to strengthen its presence in South America.
• Price Volatility in 2026: The Financial Times (April 2026) noted that calcium hydroxide prices rose by 8% in Q1 2026 due to increased energy costs in Europe and China.
• New Application in Carbon Capture: A study published in Nature (June 2026) highlighted the use of calcium hydroxide in direct air capture (DAC) technology, potentially opening a new market segment.

These developments indicate a dynamic market with both opportunities and challenges for buyers.

2026 Market Core Data Overview

Key statistics for the calcium hydroxide market in 2026 (projected):

Metric	Value	Source
Global Market Size (USD)	$8.5 Billion	Grand View Research
Global Production Volume (Million Tons)	45 Million	IMARC Group
China’s Share of Global Production	42%	China Lime Association
Average Price (Industrial Grade, FOB China)	$95/ton	Market Analysis Report
Top Application: Construction	55% of total demand	Freedonia Group
Annual Growth Rate (CAGR 2024–2026)	4.2%	Mordor Intelligence

These figures confirm a stable, growing market with strong demand from infrastructure and environmental sectors.

Customer and Market Pain Points

Understanding common challenges helps buyers avoid pitfalls:

• Quality Inconsistency: Many buyers report variations in purity between batches from Chinese factories. Solution: Request COA for each shipment and consider third-party testing.
• Long Lead Times: During peak seasons (Q2–Q3), lead times can extend to 30 days. Solution: Place orders 4–6 weeks in advance and maintain buffer stock.
• Hidden Costs: Unexpected port charges, demurrage, or tariff increases can inflate costs. Solution: Work with a freight forwarder for accurate total landed cost calculations.
• Communication Barriers: Language differences can lead to misunderstandings about specifications. Solution: Use detailed technical datasheets and employ a bilingual agent if needed.
• Environmental Compliance: Stricter regulations in importing countries (e.g., EU REACH) may require additional documentation. Solution: Ensure supplier provides MSDS and compliance certificates.
• Counterfeit Products: Some suppliers may mix low-grade material with high-grade. Solution: Only buy from verified suppliers and inspect shipments upon arrival.

By addressing these pain points proactively, buyers can secure reliable, cost-effective calcium hydroxide supplies for their projects.