Non-Isothermal Kinetics of Thermal Decomposition of Calcium Carbonate for Lime Production Process

Abstract

Thermal decomposition of calcium carbonate is a fundamental process in lime production industries, where reaction kinetics and heat transfer characteristics strongly influence energy consumption, product quality, and process efficiency. The present study investigates the non-isothermal kinetics of calcium carbonate decomposition under controlled thermal conditions relevant to industrial lime production processes. The research focuses on evaluating decomposition behavior, activation energy, reaction mechanisms, and thermal conversion characteristics associated with calcination of calcium carbonate. Experimental analysis was conducted using thermogravimetric and kinetic evaluation techniques to examine the influence of heating rate, particle size, temperature profile, and atmospheric conditions on decomposition performance and carbon dioxide release behavior. Results demonstrate that increasing heating rates significantly affect decomposition temperature and reaction progression due to changes in heat transfer and mass diffusion mechanisms within calcium carbonate particles. The study further reveals that thermal decomposition proceeds through multi-stage kinetic behavior involving nucleation, crystal transformation, and gas diffusion-controlled reaction pathways. Kinetic modeling and activation energy analysis indicate strong dependence of decomposition efficiency on thermal operating conditions and material characteristics. Optimized calcination parameters contributed to enhanced conversion efficiency and reduced energy demand during lime production. Comparative assessment with isothermal kinetic approaches confirms that non-isothermal analysis provides improved understanding of industrial calcination behavior and more accurate prediction of reaction performance under practical operating conditions.