Sodium Hydroxide is an important basic compound used in many industries. It is also known as caustic. It is white in color and has hygroscopic properties.
It readily dissolves in water and has a soft, slippery, soapy texture. It exists in both liquid and solid forms; the solid form is in the form of flakes or beads, while the liquid form is in an aqueous solution. It has no odor.
Sodium Hydroxide was discovered by Humphrey Day in England in 1807. It does not occur naturally, but it is quite easy to produce. It is produced as a 50% solution by electrolysis of simple table salt, which produces chlorine gas. Caustic soda is obtained in solid form by evaporating the water in the solution. It is usually sold commercially in 25 kg packages.
Areas of Use
- Paper, paint, rayon, and detergent industries
- Oil refining
- Chemical industry (largest use)
- Aluminum production
- Kraft paper production (separation of lignin from cellulose fiber and bleaching processes)
- Soap making
- Biodiesel production in the petroleum industry
- Chemical peeling of fruits and vegetables
- Chocolate and cocoa processing
- As a thickener in caramel and soft drink production
- Softening olives
- Sink openers and powerful cleaning agents
- Degreasing stainless steel
- Sewerage and waste Cleaning water pipes
- Dissolving grease and heavy oils