Calcium Carbonate: Uses, Benefits, and Safety Guide
Calcium carbonate (CaCO₃) is a naturally occurring chemical compound commonly found in rocks such as limestone, chalk, and marble. It also appears in biological materials like eggshells, seashells, coral, and pearls. Substances rich in or similar to calcium carbonate are often called calcareous. This compound is a key component of agricultural lime and forms limescale when calcium ions in hard water combine with carbonate ions. In medicine, calcium carbonate serves as a calcium supplement and an antacid. However, excessive intake can lead to health problems such as hypercalcemia and digestive discomfort.
Dietary Supplement: Calcium carbonate supplies the body with calcium, an essential mineral for maintaining strong bones, healthy muscles, proper nerve function, and heart health. It is often used when dietary calcium intake is inadequate.
Antacid: Acts to neutralize excess stomach acid, helping to relieve symptoms such as heartburn, acid indigestion, and sour stomach.
Industrial Filler: Serves as a filler and whitening agent in various industries, including paper, plastics, paints, and rubber manufacturing.
Animal Feed: Added to animal feed formulations as a calcium source to support growth and bone development.
Other Applications: Widely used in construction materials, agricultural lime for soil improvement, and in environmental processes to remove sulfur dioxide from industrial exhaust gases.
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Key Characteristics
Appearance: Typically a white, odorless powder or transparent crystals.
Solubility: Poorly soluble in water.
Natural Sources: Commonly found in limestone, marble, chalk, and the shells of marine organisms.
Potential Side Effects
Overconsumption: Prolonged or excessive intake may cause adverse effects such as kidney complications, elevated calcium levels (hypercalcemia), and digestive discomfort.
Contact Irritation: Direct exposure can irritate the eyes, skin, or respiratory tract.