Lime (CaCO₃)

Production Process

Precipitated calcium carbonate (PCC) is primarily produced through a carbonation process. In this method, natural limestone is first calcined and then brought into contact with carbon dioxide gas, causing particles to precipitate with controlled size, shape, and purity. In this process, the amount of CO₂ released is often equal to or greater than the amount eventually stored in the final product.

To reduce greenhouse gas emissions, CO₂ from industrial flue gases can be used as a carbon source in this process, especially if the required calcium is extracted from alternative sources such as alkaline industrial wastes like ashes and slags. These materials often contain soluble calcium and can be used in CO₂ absorption and storage processes.

Environmental and Economic Benefits

By using the carbonation process and utilizing industrial waste, it is possible not only to reduce greenhouse gas emissions but also to produce commercially valuable products. Provided the final product maintains quality in terms of purity, particle size, and crystal structure, this method can be a suitable alternative to traditional methods while also helping reduce industrial waste.

Existing Production Technologies

Various methods have been developed for producing calcium carbonate, differing in process design, raw materials, and production costs. The choice of method depends on the type of application and the expected quality. Technical tables provide details of these processes, chemical compositions of raw materials, and production capacities.

Mineral Carbonation and Use of Industrial Waste

In recent years, technologies based on mineral carbonation have gained attention as a method for capturing and stabilizing CO₂. In these processes, carbon dioxide is stored as stable chemical compounds such as calcium or magnesium carbonate. Wastes such as steelmaking slag, municipal ash, cement kiln dust, and saline wastewater can serve as suitable calcium sources, provided impurities like iron and manganese are effectively removed.

Conclusion

Climate change has increased the need for technologies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. One innovative option is CCUS (Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage) technology. In this method, CO₂ is permanently and stably stored in solid mineral forms such as calcium carbonate. This technology not only helps reduce CO₂ emissions but also generates economic added value.