Calcium Chloride Dihydrate Powder - E 509

Calcium Chloride Dihydrate - E 509

Calcium chloride dihydrate (CaCl₂·2H₂O) is a white, highly hygroscopic salt with excellent water solubility. Depending on the batch, it contains around 72–77% pure calcium chloride, with the remaining proportion consisting of crystallised water. Due to its ability to bind moisture (humectant), it is used in a wide variety of applications in food production, cosmetics, aquatics, and various technical processes.

Applications of Calcium Chloride

Food processing

As an authorised food additive (E 509), calcium chloride dihydrate is used in the EU as a firming agent, acidity regulator and complexing agent:

• Firming agent & stabiliser: Stabilises the texture of fruit, vegetables and cheese to prevent them from becoming soft during processing or storage.
• Cheese production: Improves the coagulation properties of milk, particularly when its natural calcium content is too low. This results in a firmer structure and higher product quality.
• Other applications: Used as a stabiliser and complexing agent in, for example, tofu production, pre-cut fruit and vegetables, and in drinking water treatment.

Cosmetic applications

• Astringent: Tightens the skin surface and can help promote a smoother complexion.
• Viscosity regulator: Controls the thickness of creams, lotions and gels to achieve the desired consistency.

In cosmetics, calcium chloride is generally used in very low concentrations (up to around 1%) to ensure effective performance while maintaining good skin compatibility.

Technical applications

• Dust control: Utilises strong hygroscopicity to absorb moisture from the air, effectively reducing dust formation on unpaved roads, car parks and construction sites.
• Winter service: Effective de-icing agent that works reliably even at temperatures down to −25 °C, quickly melting ice and snow.
• Dehumidification: In powder form, suitable for non-electric dehumidification in open containers or dehumidifier devices. Ideal for basements, garages or other damp spaces – protects against mould growth, rust and mildew stains.
• Water treatment (including aquatics): Used to precisely adjust water hardness and increase calcium content in drinking, process or aquarium water. In marine aquariums, it helps maintain stable water parameters and supports optimal coral growth.

What is the difference between calcium chloride dihydrate (CaCl₂·2H₂O) and anhydrous calcium chloride (CaCl₂)?

Calcium chloride is a salt that occurs in two main forms:

Anhydrous calcium chloride (CaCl₂): Contains no bound water. It is highly hygroscopic, meaning it rapidly absorbs moisture from the surrounding air. This makes it ideal for dehumidifying and more effective than hydrated calcium chloride. However, it is also more prone to clumping or unwanted moisture uptake during transport and storage.

Calcium chloride dihydrate (CaCl₂·2H₂O): Contains two water molecules firmly bound within the crystal lattice. As a result, it is less hygroscopic, easier to handle and remains more stable in many applications. It is less likely to clump or undergo other changes during transport and storage.

Notes

Store the packaging tightly closed in a cool (approx. 20°C), well-ventilated place. Protect from frost, heat, direct sunlight and moisture.

Buy Calcium Chloride Dihydrate from DistrEbution

Whether for food production, aquatics or technical applications – our high-quality calcium chloride dihydrate (E 509) is available in various pack sizes. Order online now for versatile use!