Calcium nitrate

Calcium nitrate (CAS 10124-37-5), also known as Norway saltpeter, is an inorganic salt supplying both calcium and nitrate ions in a single compound.

Where is Calcium nitrate used?

• Agriculture: water-soluble calcium and nitrogen delivered to crops through fertigation systems
• Supports cell wall development and reduces post-harvest defects in fruits and vegetables
• Construction: set accelerator in ready-mix formulations, effective in cold-weather pours
• Wastewater treatment: dosed into anaerobic systems to suppress hydrogen sulfide generation
• It controls odor in collection networks and acts as a corrosion inhibitor in concrete reinforcement.
• Used in fertilizers, explosives and pyrotechnics.
• Used as a coagulant in dipping processes in latex production.
• Used as an auxiliary chemical in some plasticizer production.
• Nitrate is the only nitrogen source that has a synergistic effect on calcium by improving its uptake.

Formulation notes

• General dosage is 0.05–0.1%.
• Should not be mixed in the mother solution with products containing phosphorus and sulfates to avoid formation of insoluble salts.
• Do not mix with nutrient salts, as this leads to gypsum precipitation.
• Should not be absorbed with cellulose-based absorbents.

Typical specification

• Available as the anhydrous compound or the tetrahydrate.
• Maximum solubility at 20°C is 120 g/L.
• pH of a 1% solution is 6.
• A pure, highly concentrated liquid calcium fertilizer, free of ammonium, is available on the market for soilless cultivation.

Regulatory status

• Assigned UN number 1454 for transport.
• Anhydrous, solid is classified under hazard class 5.1 (oxidizing substances) for transport.

Storage, packaging and handling

• Must be kept away from combustible substances and reducing agents, and stored dry.
• Commonly offered in 25 kg bags.
• Store dry and in a closed container.

Frequently asked questions about Calcium nitrate

Which calcium nitrate grade is suitable for broadcast soil application?

A grade with hard, uniform granules is available for broadcast soil application.

Is calcium nitrate suitable for use with soft water?

Yes, calcium nitrate is suitable for use with soft water.

Technical content is compiled and updated by the SoleChem product team from public technical sources; the certificate of analysis (COA) governs product-specific specifications.