Calcium hydride
Calcium hydride (CAS 7789-78-8), with the molecular formula H2Ca and a molecular weight of 42.09 g/mol, is a reactive inorganic compound supplied by TSS as a powder. It is known for its strong reducing properties and its ability to generate hydrogen gas upon contact with water or acids. This makes it a valuable reagent in chemical synthesis, particularly for reductions and as a source of hydrogen in specific applications.

Reducing Agent
Calcium hydride serves as a powerful reducing agent in organic synthesis, capable of reducing various functional groups. Its application is particularly noted in deoxygenation reactions and the reduction of specific organic compounds where a strong hydride source is required.
Hydrogen Gas Generation
Reacts vigorously with water and acids to liberate hydrogen gas. This property is leveraged in applications requiring a controlled on-demand source of hydrogen, such as in specialized laboratory settings or for generating an inert atmosphere.
Desiccant
Due to its reactivity with moisture, calcium hydride can be employed as a desiccant in specific non-aqueous systems to remove trace amounts of water. Careful handling is required due to its exothermic reaction with water.
Chemical Synthesis Reagent
As a fundamental inorganic compound, calcium hydride is used as a building block or reagent in the synthesis of various other calcium compounds and organometallic species. Its utility spans diverse areas of chemical research and development.
| Molecular weight | 42.09 |
|---|---|
| Empirical formula | H2Ca |
| Assay | ≥97.0% (gas-volumetric) |
| Grade | purum p.a. |
| Form | powder |
| Melting point | 190 °C(lit.) |

Hazard statements
- H260In contact with water releases flammable gases
Precautionary statements
- P223Do not allow contact with water
- P231Handle under inert gas
- P370In case of fire
- P422
| Protective equipment | Eyeshields, full-face particle respirator type N100 (US), Gloves, respirator cartridge type N100 (US), type P1 (EN143) respirator filter, type P3 (EN 143) respirator cartridges |
|---|---|
| Transport (UN / ADR) | UN 1404 4.3 / PGI |
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 1sulfate (SO42-): ≤100 mg/kg |
| Hazard codes (EU) | F |
| Risk statements (R) | 15 |
| Safety statements (S) | 7/8-24/25-43 |
| Cation traces | Cd: ≤50 mg/kgCo: ≤50 mg/kgCu: ≤200 mg/kgFe: ≤100 mg/kgK: ≤100 mg/kgNa: ≤500 mg/kgNi: ≤50 mg/kgPb: ≤50 mg/kgZn: ≤50 mg/kg |
| Anion traces | chloride (Cl-): ≤2000 mg/kgsulfate (SO42-): ≤100 mg/kg |
Hazard information is provided for guidance. Always consult the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS), available on request, before handling.
Documentation
Every batch ships with a Certificate of Analysis covering assay, identity and purity; the grade is confirmed against your enquiry. Safety Data Sheets and technical data sheets are available on request.
Supply & logistics
Samples for technical evaluation; bulk MOQ by grade and packaging. In-stock material ships in 7–10 working days, worldwide, with full export documentation.
What is Calcium Hydride (CAS 7789-78-8) used for?
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Calcium hydride (CAS 7789-78-8) is primarily used as a strong reducing agent in chemical synthesis, for generating hydrogen gas upon reaction with water or acids, and as a desiccant in specific applications.
What are the CAS number and molecular formula for Calcium Hydride?
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The CAS number for Calcium Hydride is 7789-78-8, and its molecular formula is H2Ca.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply for Calcium Hydride?
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Tech Serve Solutions supplies Calcium Hydride in a 'purum p.a.' grade with an assay of ≥97.0% (gas-volumetric). TSS does not represent this product as USP, BP, or EP grade.
How should Calcium Hydride be handled safely?
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Calcium hydride is dangerous and highly flammable in contact with water (H260), reacting vigorously to release flammable gas. It requires careful handling in dry conditions, away from moisture, and with appropriate personal protective equipment including eyeshields, gloves, and a suitable respirator.
Is Calcium Hydride available for export by Tech Serve Solutions?
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Yes, Tech Serve Solutions specialises in the global supply and export of fine chemicals, including Calcium Hydride. Please contact us for export availability to your region.
How can I request a quote or sample for Calcium Hydride?
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To request a quote or a sample of Calcium Hydride, please use the 'Request a Quote' or 'Request a Sample' buttons on our product page, or contact our sales team directly with your requirements.
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