What is calcium sulfate dihydrate used for?
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaO4S * 2H20) is a calcium salt that is used for a variety of purposes including building materials, as a desiccant (drying agent), in dentistry as an impression material, cast, or die, and in medicine for immobilizing casts and as an inactive ingredient or tablet excipient and color glaze.
The main use of calcium sulfate is to produce plaster of Paris and stucco. These applications exploit the fact that calcium sulfate which has been powdered and calcined forms a moldable paste upon hydration and hardens as crystalline calcium sulfate dihydrate.
GENERAL SAFETY INFORMATION
| ACUTE HAZARDS | PREVENTION | FIRE FIGHTING | |
| FIRE & EXPLOSION | Not combustible. Gives off irritating or toxic fumes (or gases) in a fire. | In case of fire in the surroundings, use appropriate extinguishing media. |
| SYMPTOMS | PREVENTION | FIRST AID | |
| Inhalation | Cough. | Use local exhaust or breathing protection. | Fresh air, rest. |
| Skin | Rinse and then wash skin with water and soap. | ||
| Eyes | Redness. | Wear safety spectacles. | First rinse with plenty of water for several minutes (remove contact lenses if easily possible), then refer for medical attention. |
| Ingestion | Do not eat, drink, or smoke during work. | Rinse mouth. |
| EXPOSURE & HEALTH EFFECTS | |
| Routes of exposure Effects of short-term exposure May cause mechanical irritation. |
Inhalation risk A nuisance-causing concentration of airborne particles can be reached quickly when dispersed. Effects of long-term or repeated exposure Lungs may be affected by repeated or prolonged exposure to dust particles. |
