Demand

Quicklime Demand

The major use of quicklime is in the basic oxygen steelmaking (BOS) process. Its usage varies from about 30 to 50 kilograms (65–110 lb) per ton of steel. The quicklime neutralizes the acidic oxides, SiO2, Al2O3, and Fe2O3, to produce a basic molten slag.

Ground quicklime is used in the production of aerated concrete such as blocks with densities of ca. 0.6–1.0 g/cm3 (9.8–16.4 g/cu in).

Quicklime and hydrated lime can considerably increase the load carrying capacity of clay-containing soils. They do this by reacting with finely divided silica and alumina to produce calcium silicates and aluminates, which possess cementing properties.

Small quantities of quicklime are used in other processes; e.g., the production of glass, calcium aluminate cement, and organic chemicals

Market - Quicklime Linked to the Copper Market

The global lime market was valued at circa US$55.9bn in 2022 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.4% from 2023 to 2031 to reach US$89.8bn. (Transparency Market Research)

Quicklime demand is closely linked to the copper market, which is forecast to reach $40,000 a tonne in the next four years up from $11,000 a tonne in May 2024 (Andurand) 

Limestone Demand

Aside from its use to make Quicklime, Limestone the raw material is used globally in a variety of different ways including construction, agriculture and as industrial materials

Limestone can be processed into many various forms such as brick, cement, powdered/crushed, or as a filler