Liquid calcium lignosulfonate is an aqueous lignosulfonate grade considered for industrial dispersion, binding and selected cementitious formulations. A liquid format can simplify dissolution and automated dosing, but “calcium lignosulfonate liquid” is not one universal specification. Solids, density, pH, reducing sugars, insolubles, preservatives and storage behavior depend on the supplied grade.
This page provides a buyer and formulation checklist. Product values must be taken from the current supplier TDS and lot-specific COA rather than generic online ranges. For the main calcium lignosulfonate product route, see LigninCorp Calcium Lignosulfonate.
GAC-CaLS-L: documented industrial-grade data
The Green Agrochem Liquid Calcium Lignosulfonate TDS, document GAC-CaLS-L, Rev. 2.0, identifies this grade for construction and industrial applications. These values are not agricultural or feed-grade specifications.
| Property | TDS value | Conditions and status |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Dark brown to black liquid | Typical description |
| Solid content | 45% min | TDS reference value; analytical method and percentage basis are not stated |
| Water-insoluble matter | 2.0% max | TDS reference value; analytical method and percentage basis are not stated |
| pH | Around 5.0 | At 25°C; preparation and method are not stated |
| Density | 1.265 g/ml | At 25°C |
| Reducing sugar | Approximately 4% | Typical value; analytical method and percentage basis are not stated |
How to interpret these numbers: although the table uses minimum and maximum wording, the TDS expressly describes its values as typical production results for reference, not a binding product specification. Obtain the agreed supply specification and the shipment COA before acceptance. Confirm analytical methods and percentage bases before comparing suppliers. Total dry solids must not be treated as pure lignosulfonate or active dispersant content.
Why choose a liquid grade?
- avoids on-site powder dissolution where a ready-to-meter liquid is preferred;
- supports closed transfer and automated dosing equipment;
- can shorten solution-preparation time in suitable processes;
- allows direct density-based inventory and metering control when the current value is documented.
The carrier water affects freight, storage and formulation water balance. Buyers should compare products on delivered cost, documented dry-solids content and achieved process performance—not liquid mass alone.
Documents and incoming checks
| Item | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Solids content | Converts delivered-liquid mass to total dry solids when the mass basis is confirmed; it does not measure active lignosulfonate content. |
| Density at stated temperature | Needed for mass-volume conversion and dosing calibration. |
| pH and appearance | Routine identity and incoming-quality checks. |
| Reducing sugars | Relevant to setting response in cementitious applications. |
| Water insolubles | Relevant to filtration, sediment, nozzles and pump reliability. |
| Microbial control or preservative information | Relevant to storage stability where supplied and permitted. |
| Chloride and alkali contribution | Review against the end-use specification. |
Potential industrial uses
Depending on grade and qualification, liquid calcium lignosulfonate may be screened in conventional concrete and mortar admixtures, mineral or ceramic slurries, selected granulation and binding processes, and other aqueous dispersion systems. Suitability for drilling fluids, grinding aids, wastewater treatment or metal adsorption requires application-specific evidence; these uses should not be inferred solely from the product name.
Formulation trial after exact-grade documentation
A numerical range may be described as a supplier-recommended starting trial range only after the exact liquid-calcium grade, current source document, revision and calculation basis are confirmed. The GAC-CaLS-L Rev. 2.0 TDS supplies no numerical application dosage. Ask for application-specific trial guidance. Distinguish as-supplied liquid, total dry solids and independently assayed active content, and state the formulation denominator. Confirm the water contribution rather than assuming all non-solids are water.
- Define the control formulation and measurable acceptance criteria.
- Screen several dosages on a consistently defined, documented basis using the actual raw materials.
- Record addition sequence, mixing energy, temperature and hold time.
- Measure viscosity or flow, stability, air and setting where relevant.
- Verify final strength, binding, drying, durability or other end-use requirements.
- Confirm the selected formula in a controlled production-scale trial.
Storage, handling and dosing
The GAC-CaLS-L Rev. 2.0 TDS states a shelf life of 12 months under its recommended storage conditions: cool, dry and ventilated, protected from freezing and sunlight. It advises keeping the container closed and mixing before use after extended storage. No numerical storage-temperature range is provided. Confirm the shelf-life start date and obtain the matching SDS for hazard, handling and transport assessment.
- Follow the current TDS and SDS for storage temperature, shelf life and personal protection.
- Confirm whether agitation or recirculation is required before specifying tank design.
- Inspect for sediment, phase change or microbial deterioration before use.
- Calibrate pumps using the documented density at the relevant temperature.
- Prevent contamination during unloading and keep incompatible materials segregated.
Calcium versus sodium liquid grades
Do not choose solely from a generic pH or solubility table. Calcium and sodium lignosulfonate grades can differ in more than the counter-ion, and their response depends on the full composition and the formulation environment. Compare current TDS and COA data, then run side-by-side tests on equal total dry solids where the mass basis is confirmed, or equal independently assayed active content where that assay is available. For sodium liquid handling and concrete dosing, see Liquid Sodium Lignosulfonate and the liquid lignosulfonate concrete guide.
Important limitations
No fixed water reduction, strength increase, viscosity change, heavy-metal removal or process benefit can be assumed from the product name. Safety, biodegradability and environmental comparisons require product-specific documentation and an appropriate assessment.
Request the current TDS and SDS, a representative sample and a lot-specific COA before approval. Contact info@greenagrochem.com with the intended process and acceptance criteria.
All Liquid Calcium Grades
| Grade (code) | Solids | Lignosulphonate (dry basis) | pH | Reducing sugar | Density |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| General (GAC-CaLS-L) | 45% min | 45% min | around 5.0 | around 4% | 1.265 g/ml |
| Acidic (CaLS-L-Acidic) | 45% min | 55% min | 4.0 – 6.0 | around 12% | 1.268 g/ml |
| Dust Control (GAC-CaLS-DC-Liquid) | 45 – 55% | 45% min (liquid basis) | 4.0 – 7.0 | — | 1.20 – 1.28 g/cm³ |
| Feed Grade (GAC-CaLS-FEED) | 45% min | 55% min | 4.0 – 6.0 | around 15% | 1.268 g/ml |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the specification of liquid calcium lignosulfonate?
The general grade (GAC-CaLS-L, TDS Rev. 2.0): 45% min solids, 45% min lignosulphonate (dry basis), pH around 5.0, around 4% reducing sugar, 2% max insolubles, density 1.265 g/ml.
What is liquid calcium lignosulfonate used for?
Concrete plasticizer and cement grinding aid, ceramics, binders for ores and coal, dust control and drilling mud, as listed in the TDS.
Calcium or sodium liquid: which should I use?
Calcium is common for concrete and dust control; sodium is used where calcium ions are unwanted.
