Caustic Soda

Caustic Soda 

Chemical Formula: NaOH
CAS Number: 1310-73-2
Appearance: White flakes, pellets, or pearls

Key Features

• Strong alkali (pH ~14 in solution) with high reactivity

• Highly soluble in water, releasing significant heat (exothermic reaction)

• Hygroscopic: Absorbs moisture and CO₂ from air (store sealed)

• Versatile neutralization agent: Reacts with acids to form salts and water

• Chlorine-free but extremely corrosive to skin and metals

Applications

1. Chemical Manufacturing:

• Production of soaps, detergents, and surfactants

• Key raw material for alumina, paper, and textiles

2. Water Treatment:

• pH adjustment in wastewater neutralization

• Pipe cleaning and descaling agent

3. Food Industry:

• Olive curing, cocoa processing, and beverage bottling cleaning

• Approved for equipment sanitation (diluted solutions)

4. Industrial Cleaning:

• Degreasing agent for metal surfaces

• Biodiesel production catalyst

5. Other Uses:

• Petroleum refining

• Rayon and cellulose production

Safety & Handling

• Storage: Keep in cool, dry, ventilated areas; avoid contact with moisture or acids.

• Safety:

• Corrosive! Wear PPE (gloves, goggles, face shield).

• Reacts violently with aluminum, zinc, and acids (risk of explosion).