Calcium chloride (CaCl2) is a white, odorless inorganic salt made of calcium and chlorine. It is highly soluble in water and strongly hygroscopic, meaning it actively absorbs moisture from the air, which is why it is such a widely used drying and de-icing agent. In commercial trade it is most often supplied as dihydrate flakes (around 74% purity) or as anhydrous material (around 94% or higher), and it is also available as pellets, powder, granules, balls, and liquid solution. Because of its versatility, calcium chloride serves a broad range of industries, from road maintenance and oil & gas to food processing and construction.
Weifang Hailei Fine Chemical Co., Ltd supplies a complete range of calcium chloride to match different applications and budgets. The standard portfolio includes 74% dihydrate flake, 77% pellet desiccant grade, 94% anhydrous flake, 94% anhydrous light ball, 94% anhydrous powder, and anhydrous spike ball. Buyers can also order dihydrate light ball 74%, dihydrate powder 74%, food grade 95%, industrial block, and liquid calcium chloride in concentrations of 27–40%. Each grade is produced to its own typical specification so that procurement teams can select exactly the purity, physical form, and packaging that their process requires.
Calcium chloride is typically produced by reacting calcium carbonate (limestone) with hydrochloric acid, or by recovering and purifying it from natural brines and certain industrial by-product streams. The resulting calcium chloride solution is filtered, concentrated, and crystallized, after which it is dried and shaped into the final physical forms such as flakes, pellets, powder, or balls. Flake and ball products are generally formed from concentrated melt or solution, while anhydrous material is produced by more complete drying to remove water of crystallization. A reliable source factory controls each of these stages to keep purity, appearance, and moisture content consistent from batch to batch.
The key difference is water content and effective purity. Dihydrate calcium chloride (typically 74–77% CaCl2) contains chemically bound water and is most often supplied as flakes or powder; it is economical and works well for de-icing, dust control, and many industrial uses. Anhydrous calcium chloride (typically 94% or higher CaCl2) has had nearly all water removed, which makes it more hygroscopic and more concentrated, so less material is needed to reach a given strength. Anhydrous grades are preferred for desiccants, drying applications, and higher-purity requirements, and they usually command a higher price per ton.
For road and highway de-icing, 74% dihydrate flake is the most common and cost-effective choice because it releases heat as it dissolves and works effectively at low temperatures. The flake form spreads evenly and starts melting ice quickly, while its hygroscopic nature keeps working after initial application. For applications that demand maximum performance or where a smaller application rate is preferred, 94% anhydrous flake can also be used. Buyers typically balance the effective temperature range, application equipment, and delivered cost when selecting between dihydrate and anhydrous de-icing material.
For dust suppression on unpaved roads, mining haul roads, and construction sites, 74% dihydrate flake or liquid calcium chloride (27–40%) are widely used. The salt's hygroscopic property pulls moisture from the air and holds it in the road surface, which binds fine dust particles and keeps them from becoming airborne. Flakes are usually dissolved on site or spread and then watered in, while the liquid form is applied directly by spray truck for convenience and even coverage. This approach reduces water usage compared with plain water spraying and lasts longer between applications.
In oil and gas operations, calcium chloride is commonly used to prepare clear brine fluids and to control water activity in drilling and completion fluids. Buyers often purchase 94% anhydrous flake or 74% flake and dissolve it on site to reach the target density, while 27–40% liquid calcium chloride offers a ready-to-use option that saves mixing time. Calcium chloride brine helps inhibit clay swelling and shale hydration, and it contributes density to well-control fluids. The exact grade depends on the required brine density, logistics, and whether the operation prefers solid or liquid handling.
For desiccant and drying uses, the 77% pellet desiccant grade and the 94% anhydrous forms (flake, powder, or light ball) are the standard choices. Anhydrous material absorbs moisture aggressively and is frequently packed into drying tubes, moisture-absorbing packs, or industrial dryers where very low humidity is required. The pellet form is convenient for many packaging and flow-through drying systems, while powder offers maximum exposed surface area for rapid absorption. Buyers should specify the target absorption capacity and whether the application requires a food-grade or industrial-grade product.
Calcium chloride is a well-known concrete accelerator that shortens setting time, which is especially useful in cold weather or when fast form turnaround is needed. Both 74% flake and 94% anhydrous flake can be dissolved and dosed into the concrete mix according to the mix design. However, because chloride can promote corrosion of embedded steel reinforcement, its use is generally limited or regulated in reinforced concrete, so buyers should follow local codes and the recommendations of their concrete supplier. For non-reinforced or plain concrete applications it remains a practical, low-cost accelerator.
Calcium chloride is permitted as a food additive under the E509 designation, where it acts as a firming agent, and it is used in products such as canned vegetables, tofu production, and certain beverages. For these applications, buyers must select food grade 95% material that meets food-grade purity requirements and is produced and handled under appropriate hygiene conditions. Food-grade material is supplied with the supporting documentation needed for food-manufacturing traceability. Industrial grades must never be substituted for food grade in edible applications.
In water treatment, calcium chloride is used to adjust water chemistry, including hardness and alkalinity, and in some cases to aid coagulation or regenerate certain treatment media. The 74% and 94% grades are both used depending on dosing convenience and purity needs, and liquid 27–40% can simplify automated dosing. Buyers typically confirm the desired calcium contribution, solubility, and any purity limits with their process engineer before ordering. Because this is a bulk commodity input, delivered cost and handling logistics are also important selection factors.
Calcium chloride is routinely tested against a set of core parameters that buyers use to compare suppliers. The main test items are CaCl2 content (the active ingredient), sodium chloride (NaCl), magnesium chloride (MgCl2), alkali (usually expressed as calcium hydroxide), and water-insoluble matter. Appearance, moisture, and sometimes pH or sulfate are also checked depending on the grade. Industrial and food grades are each produced to their own relevant national or international standards, and a trustworthy supplier will provide a certificate of analysis (COA) for every shipment so the buyer can verify the specification.
Calcium chloride is normally packed in moisture-resistant bags with an inner plastic liner to protect the hygroscopic product from the air. Standard packaging includes 25kg and 50kg bags, as well as large jumbo bags (big bags) for bulk handling and industrial users. Packaging is flexible, so buyers can request specific bag weights, palletization, shrink-wrapping, or custom labeling and marking for their market. For liquid grades, IBC totes and tanker or flexitank arrangements are common, and the packaging should always be sealed to prevent caking during storage and transit.
Because calcium chloride is strongly hygroscopic, it must be kept sealed and dry at all times. Store bags indoors in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area, off the floor and away from direct moisture, and re-close partially used bags promptly to prevent clumping and caking. Workers should avoid breathing dust and should wear gloves and eye protection, since anhydrous material in particular releases heat and can irritate skin and eyes on contact with moisture. Always consult the safety data sheet (SDS) and follow local workplace safety rules when handling.
For export orders, the minimum order quantity is usually one full container load, but this can be discussed with the sales team depending on the grade and destination. Lead time depends on the product form, order volume, and the season, since winter de-icing demand can affect production scheduling. As a general industry guide, buyers should plan for production and shipment to be arranged over a matter of weeks, with the exact schedule confirmed when the order is placed. Weifang Hailei will confirm the current MOQ, availability, and delivery window for your specific specification.
Several factors determine the delivered price of calcium chloride. Purity and form matter most: anhydrous 94% grades cost more than 74% dihydrate flakes, and specialty forms or food grade carry a premium. Packaging, order quantity, and whether the order is a full container or a smaller LCL shipment also influence unit cost. Freight distance, destination port, seasonal demand for de-icing, and raw material and energy costs can all shift pricing over time. For an accurate quote, buyers should provide the grade, form, packaging, quantity, and destination port.
A good supplier evaluation starts with confirming that the vendor is a genuine manufacturer or source factory rather than only a trading intermediary. Review the consistency of their specifications and COAs, request a sample for testing, and ask about production capacity and export experience. Packaging quality, moisture protection, and reliable loading and documentation are just as important as the price per ton. Choosing a factory in a major inorganic-salt production base such as Weifang, Shandong can also improve supply stability and give you direct access to technical support.
Calcium chloride is generally shipped as a normal (non-dangerous) chemical cargo, but its hygroscopic nature makes moisture protection essential during transit. Bags should be sealed, containers should be clean and dry, and loading should avoid exposure to rain or high humidity. Export shipments are normally arranged on FOB, CIF, or CFR terms from a major port, with Shandong's ports being convenient for a Weifang-based factory. Buyers should confirm the packing, marking, and any destination-country import requirements well before the cargo is booked.
Calcium chloride is not classified as a highly dangerous chemical, but it still requires sensible handling precautions. It can generate heat when dissolved in water, and anhydrous material can irritate skin, eyes, and the respiratory tract, so gloves, eye protection, and adequate ventilation are recommended. Avoid generating and inhaling dust, and keep the product away from eyes and open wounds. As with any industrial chemical, workers should follow the SDS, and food-contact use is permitted only with the appropriate food grade.
Compared with sodium chloride (rock salt) and magnesium chloride, calcium chloride is generally more effective at lower temperatures and acts faster because it releases heat as it dissolves. This allows smaller application rates for the same melting performance, although calcium chloride typically costs more per ton. Magnesium chloride is also hygroscopic and gentle on vegetation, while sodium chloride is the lowest-cost option but loses effectiveness in very cold weather. Buyers choose among them based on local temperature range, budget, environmental considerations, and infrastructure requirements.
Yes. Reputable suppliers provide small samples so buyers can verify purity, appearance, and dissolution behavior before committing to a full container. Customization is also common for B2B orders, including specific packaging, bag weights, pallet configuration, marking, and even adjusted particle size or purity within practical limits. If you need a non-standard grade or form, discuss it with the sales team early so production and documentation can be arranged. Sampling and a pre-shipment inspection give procurement teams confidence in the final cargo.
A complete export shipment is normally accompanied by standard commercial and technical documents, including a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, certificate of analysis (COA), and safety data sheet (SDS). A certificate of origin can also be arranged to support customs clearance in the destination country. Buyers should confirm any additional compliance or testing documentation their market requires at the quotation stage, so nothing delays clearance at the port of arrival.
Calcium chloride serves a very wide range of industries. It is used in road de-icing and dust suppression, oil and gas drilling and completion fluids, construction as a concrete accelerator, and water treatment for chemistry adjustment. The food industry uses food grade E509 as a firming agent, while feed, agriculture, textile/dyeing, glass, detergent, mining, and pulp & paper operations all apply calcium chloride for specific process functions. This breadth means a single reliable supplier can often cover multiple purchasing categories for an international buyer.
Weifang, Shandong is one of China's major production bases for inorganic salts, giving the region deep raw-material access, mature logistics, and concentrated technical expertise. Buying from a source factory such as Weifang Hailei Fine Chemical Co., Ltd means you deal directly with the producer, which can improve price transparency, specification consistency, and the ability to customize packaging and grades. Hailei also produces magnesium chloride, industrial salt, and related inorganic salts, so buyers can consolidate multiple products from one supplier. Direct factory sourcing is especially valuable for B2B buyers who need stable quality and repeatable supply over the long term.