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Calcium hydroxide

Definition

Calcium hydroxide is a white powder produced by mixing calcium oxide ("lime") with water. Calcium hydroxide poisoning occurs when someone swallows this substance.

Alternative Names

Hydrate - calcium; Lime milk; Slaked lime

Poisonous Ingredient

Calcium hydroxide

Where Found

  • Cement
  • Limewater
  • Many industrial solvents and cleaners (hundreds to thousands of construction products, flooring strippers, brick cleaners, cement thickening products, and many others)
  • Slaked lime

Note: This list may not include all sources of calcium hydroxide.

Review Date: 2/7/2008
Reviewed By: Eric Perez, MD, Department of Emergency Medicine, St. Luke’s-Roosevelt Hospital Center, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission. URAC's accreditation program is the first of its kind, requiring compliance with 53 standards of quality and accountability, verified by independent audit.

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