Caustic Soda

Caustic Soda also known as lye and sodium hydroxide is an inorganic compound with the formula NaOH. It is highly soluble in water, and readily absorbs moisture and carbon dioxide from the air. Caustic Soda is used mainly in cleaning products for both industrial and household uses. Also can be used to adjust pH in various manufacturing processes. Sodium hydroxide is used in many industries: in the manufacture of pulp and paper, textiles, drinking water, soaps and detergents, and as a drain cleaner. Sodium Hydroxide is available in solid form (flakes, prills, briquettes) as well as liquid form in various concentrations.

Synonyms
Sodium Hydroxide, Lye, Ascarite, White caustic, Sodium hydrate, NaOH, Natronlut, Ätznatron
Chemical Formula
NAOH
CAS Number
1310-73-2

Characteristics

Molar Weight
39.9971 g/mol1
Melting Point
318 °C
Boiling Point
1,388 °C
Density
2.12 g/cc
Forms
Liquid, Solid

Uses and Applications

Key applications

  • Water treatment
  • Cleaning products
  • Oilseed extraction
  • Oil and Gas
  • Pulp and paper
  • Textile handling
  • Household industrial
  • Soaps and detergents
  • Bleaching agent