No, because quicklime is very hygroscopic and reacts with the humidity in the air. Quicklime should be stored in silos or enclosed places.

Quicklime should be stored in silos or at the very least under a porch. Its durability depends on its exposure to the air and/or humidity. Products stored in hermetic silos can be kept for up to a month without their properties being adversely affected.

There are various different products referred to with the word “lime”. The first of these is quicklime or calcium oxide (CaO). It is called quicklime because it is an active product that reacts with water (exothermic reaction). It comes in the form of lumps or as a dry powder (pulverised quicklime). It can be supplied in bulk or packaged in plastic sacks or big bags.

The second product is slaked lime —hydrated lime or calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)₂). This refers to the product obtained after the hydration process of quicklime (a controlled mixture of lime with water). Quicklime reacts with water to form calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)₂). Calcium hydroxide comes in the form of a dry white powder and can be supplied in bulk —in tanker trailers— or in sacks. Depending on the amount of surplus water, slaked lime goes on to become milk of lime (diluted).

After the controlled slaking of quicklime and its subsequent ageing, it becomes putty lime (a solid suspension).

Both quicklime and slaked lime are natural chemical reagents and, like any chemical product have a Materials Safety Data Sheet. We can provide these MSDSs on request.

You should use safety glasses with lateral protection to avoid burning the eyes. It is also advisable to wear a protective shirt, trousers, high boots, a mask and gloves.

Lime is a caustic product and an irritant. In the event of an accident, you should wash the affected area with cold water for at least 15 minutes and seek medical attention as soon as possible.