What is Calcium Carbide?

Calcium carbide, also known as calcium acetylide, is a chemical compound with the chemical formula of CaC₂. Its main use industrially is in the production of acetylene and calcium cyanamide

What is calcium carbide used for?

Applications of calcium carbide include manufacture of acetylene gas, generation of acetylene in carbide lamps, manufacture of chemicals for fertilizer, and steelmaking.

Is calcium carbide illegal?

Consumption of fruits ripened with Calcium Carbide can cause severe health problems; therefore, the use of this Calcium Carbide for ripening is illegal in most countries

Is calcium carbide harmful to health?

Calcium carbide treatment of food is extremely hazardous because it contains traces of arsenic and phosphorous. Once dissolved in water, the carbide produces acetylene gas. Acetylene gas may affect the neurological system by inducing prolonged hypoxia.

Why shouldn’t you touch calcium carbide with your own hands?

Hazard statement(s) H260 In contact with water releases flammable gases which may ignite spontaneously. H315 Causes skin irritation. H318 Causes serious eye damage. H335 May cause respiratory irritation

Is carbide banned?

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has banned calcium carbide under the Prevention of Food Adulteration (PFA) Act, 1954.

Is carbide cancerous?

There is limited evidence that Silicon Carbide causes cancer in animals. It may cause cancer of the lungs. * Many scientists believe there is no safe level of exposure to a carcinogen. Such substances may also have the potential for causing reproductive damage in humans.

Where to buy calcium carbide in Namibia?

It is available at Afrox and other chemical shops in Namibia.