Caustic Soda

Sodium hydroxide, also known as lye and caustic soda, is an inorganic compound with the formula NaOH. It is a white solid ionic compound consisting of sodium cations Na+ and hydroxide anions OH−.   Sodium hydroxide is a highly caustic base and alkali that decomposes proteins at ordinary ambient temperatures and may cause severe chemical burns. It is highly soluble in water, and readily absorbs moisture and carbon dioxide from the air. Sodium hydroxide is a popular strong base used in industry. Sodium hydroxide is used in the manufacture of sodium salts and detergents, pH regulation, and organic synthesis.   Other common uses of sodium hydroxide include: - for making soaps and detergents. Sodium hydroxide is used for hard bar soap while potassium -- - hydroxide is used for liquid soaps. sodium hydroxide is used more often than potassium hydroxide because it is cheaper and a smaller quantity is needed. - as drain cleaners that contain sodium hydroxide convert fats and grease that can clog pipes into soap, which dissolves in water. (see cleaning agent) - for making artificial textile fibres (such as Rayon). - in the manufacture of paper. Around 56% of sodium hydroxide produced is used by industry, 25% of which is used in the paper industry. (see chemical pulping) - in purifying bauxite ore from which aluminium metal is extracted. This is known as Bayer process. (see dissolving amphoteric metals and compounds) - in de-greasing metals, oil refining, and making dyes and bleaches. - in water treatment plants for pH regulation.