Calcium sulfate: Difference between revisions
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== Usage == | == Usage == | ||
Calcium sulfate should be added with good mixing. It can be added to the mash as a concentrated slurry or directly but slowly to the mash as it is being stirred.<ref name=hob10/> | Calcium sulfate should be added with good mixing. It can be added to the mash as a concentrated slurry or directly but slowly to the mash as it is being stirred.<ref name=hob10/> To calculate how much calcium sulfate salt should be added, try our calculator for [[water mineral adjustment]]. | ||
== Chemical characteristics == | == Chemical characteristics == | ||
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Calcium sulfate salt has 2 water molecules incorporated into the crystalline structure, which is why it is technically called "calcium sulfate dihydrate". Molecular weight is 172.17 g/mol. | Calcium sulfate salt has 2 water molecules incorporated into the crystalline structure, which is why it is technically called "calcium sulfate dihydrate". Molecular weight is 172.17 g/mol. | ||
== References == | == References == | ||
Revision as of 20:42, 15 May 2024
Calcium sulfate (CaSO4•2H2O, also known as gypsum) is one of the main brewing salts used for water mineral adjustment because it is a good source of both calcium and sulfate, both of which are commonly desired in the brewing water. Calcium helps to control pH, and improves wort and beer clarification. Calcium sulfate can be used in combination with calcium chloride to control the sulfate:chloride ratio of the water, which affects the resulting hoppy vs malty balance of the beer.
Products available online
To encourage quick dissolution, the gypsum should be purchased as a finely ground powder.[1] Always buy food grade brewing salts.
- Pure (via Amazon) - 4 oz, 11 oz, 2 lb, 5 lb, 10 lb
- North Mountain Supply (via Amazon) - 1.5 lb
- MoreBeer - 2 oz, 1 lb, 5 lb, 50 lb
Usage
Calcium sulfate should be added with good mixing. It can be added to the mash as a concentrated slurry or directly but slowly to the mash as it is being stirred.[1] To calculate how much calcium sulfate salt should be added, try our calculator for water mineral adjustment.
Chemical characteristics
Calcium sulfate has limited solubility in water, around 2 g/L, with max solubility around 104°F (40°C).[2]
Calcium sulfate salt has 2 water molecules incorporated into the crystalline structure, which is why it is technically called "calcium sulfate dihydrate". Molecular weight is 172.17 g/mol.
References
- ↑ a b Ryder DS. Processing aids in brewing. In: Stewart GG, Russell I, Anstruther A, eds. Handbook of Brewing. 3rd ed. CRC Press; 2017.
- ↑ Palmer J, Kaminski C. Water: A Comprehensive Guide for Brewers. Brewers Publications; 2013.