Calcium Fluoride Pure Grade

Product Description

Calcium fluoride (CaF2) is a chemical compound composed of calcium and fluorine. It is commonly found in nature as the mineral fluorite and is often used in various industrial applications.

Natural Occurrence: Fluorite, the mineral form of calcium fluoride, is widely distributed in nature. It occurs in various colors, including purple, green, blue, yellow, and clear.

Physical Properties: Calcium fluoride is a crystalline solid with a cubic crystal structure. It is transparent over a broad range of wavelengths, making it useful in optical applications. Its refractive index is relatively low compared to other optical materials.

Industrial Uses:

Optical Applications: Due to its optical properties, calcium fluoride is used as a material for lenses, prisms, and windows in a variety of optical instruments, including infrared and ultraviolet applications.

Fluoridation: Calcium fluoride is sometimes added to toothpaste and water supplies to prevent tooth decay.

Metallurgy: It is used as a flux in the production of steel and other metals, helping to remove impurities.

Ceramics: In the production of ceramics and enamel, calcium fluoride is used as a flux to lower the melting point of the materials.

Chemical Properties: Calcium fluoride is relatively inert chemically. It is insoluble in water and does not react with most acids. However, it can react with strong acids such as sulfuric acid to produce hydrogen fluoride gas.

Health and Safety: While calcium fluoride itself is relatively non-toxic, excessive exposure to fluoride can lead to fluorosis, a condition characterized by discoloration and weakening of the teeth and bones. However, the levels of fluoride used in fluoridation of water and toothpaste are carefully regulated to provide dental benefits without causing harm.