Calcium carbonate is also used in the purification of iron from iron ore in a blast furnace. The carbonate is calcined in situ to give calcium oxide, which forms a slag with various impurities present, and separates from the purified iron.
One re-hydrated package fills about 15-20 dishes. Mix 1 level teaspoon of dehydrated agar with 100 ml (3/8 cup) of water and then bring to a boil to make 100 ml of agar solution. Prepare Petri Dishes: Fill petri dishes to just cover the bottom. Typical 90-100mm dishes require 10-15 ml agar. Rotate the dish to obtain even surface coverage. Cover the dish immediately and let stand until firm. Store upside down in the refrigerator until ready to use.
Start pouring the dishes in a rythmic manner starting from the bottom plate and working your way up. Add just enough agar so that the bottom of the dish is completely covered. Try to leave the lid of the petri dish open for as little time as possible. Also, ensure no part of your hands touches the inside of the dish.