Australia's Science Forum

Good Morning,
I have two containers of Calcium metal granules that are so oxidized (I assume) that the calcium no longer reacts. Does anyone have any ideas how to rectify this or if I get new calcium how to prevent this happening?

Thanks
Lorrae

Sometimes you can scrape the oxidised stuff off while it's under water or acid and then it will react. Start with one small piece as it may still be very reactive under the surface coating.

I keep calcium in an air tight container or a desiccator.. when it gets oxidized I collect it and eventually throw it out.. once it has oxidized into powder it is no longer reactive and can go out.