The low-temperature oxidation of calcium by water vapor

The oxidation kinetics of calcium in water vapor have been studied over the temperature range 25–300°C. There is a change in the form of the oxidation kinetics with temperature, from essentially linear at temperatures below 150°C to logarithmic at 300°C. This is coupled with a change in the manner of growth of the oxide layer as well as the chemical composition of the reaction product. In addition, the oxidation rate decreases with temperature, reaching a minimum at about 150°C. At temperatures below 150°C oxidation appears to be a result of the formation of cracks or fissures in the oxide film. Above 150°C no single oxidation mechanism can be deduced.