Limestone is the essential raw material in the production of lime, with direct implications for industrial performance, operational efficiency and long-term investment viability. Its role in producing both quicklime and hydrated lime positions it as a foundation material across sectors such as construction, water treatment, manufacturing and environmental services.
The process starts with limestone being heated in kilns to produce quicklime through thermal decomposition. This high-temperature reaction removes carbon dioxide from the stone, leaving behind calcium oxide. The resulting quicklime is highly reactive and used in various applications, or further processed by adding water to create hydrated lime. This second stage reduces reactivity and increases stability, making it suitable for storage, transport and specific industrial uses.
Firering Strategic Minerals plc (LON:FRG) is an emerging quicklime producer and critical minerals explorer, with operations in Zambia and West Africa.
