Caustic Soda NirouChlor

Physical Properties of Caustic Soda

Caustic soda is presented in solid flake and chip forms, and its physical properties are as follows:

• Melting Point: 318 degrees Celsius
• Boiling Point: 1390 degrees Celsius
• Density: 2.13 grams per cubic centimeter
• Solubility in Water: Highly soluble

What is Sodium Hydroxide?

Sodium hydroxide, also known as caustic soda (chemical formula NaOH), is a white ionic compound that can cause severe chemical burns upon contact with skin. It is highly soluble in water and easily absorbs moisture and carbon dioxide from the air. This compound is sold in various forms, including flakes, granules, and molded blocks. The solid caustic soda from the company Nirochlor is available in flake form.

Synonyms for Caustic Soda

• Caustic soda
• Lye
• Solid caustic soda
• Industrial degreaser
• Caustic
• Sodium hydroxide

Method of Producing Sodium Hydroxide

Sodium hydroxide is produced through the electrolysis of sodium chloride solutions in electrolytic cells. In the mercury cell process, a current of mercury acts as the cathode, and the resulting sodium amalgam combines with water to produce sodium hydroxide. In another process called the diaphragm cell, the electrolyte moves from the anode to the cathode, with a diaphragm (made of felt or other membrane materials) separating the anode and cathode products. In both processes, chlorine gas and hydrogen gas are also produced alongside sodium hydroxide. Caustic soda is produced in many countries, with major producers including Russia, the USA, China, Germany, and Iran, where significant production means there is no need for imports.

Uses of Caustic Soda

Caustic soda, or sodium hydroxide, is used as a strong base in the production of sodium salts, detergents, pH regulation, titration, organic syntheses, and various industries. Due to its bleaching properties, it is widely used in the paper and textile industries. Additionally, caustic soda plays a crucial role in aluminum production from its ore.

In the food industry, it is used for washing or peeling fruits and vegetables, preparing coffee and chocolate, producing caramel coloring, making non-alcoholic beverages, firming ice cream, and producing Chinese noodles. Due to its strong alkalinity, caustic soda is also used in water treatment and increasing water pH, which reduces corrosiveness and the presence of toxic metals like tin and copper in water.

The grease-cutting power of sodium hydroxide has made it widely used in the production of detergents, particularly soap. Its cleaning power increases in hot water. Caustic soda is also used in the production of fuel cells and epoxy resins, which are employed in wind turbines. Furthermore, this compound is important in fuel production, as seen in the creation of sodium methylate during bioethanol and biodiesel production.

Other Uses of Caustic Soda

• Production of alcohol and biodiesel
• Leather and tanning industries
• Production of sodium salts
• Fuel cell production
• Epoxy resin production
• Paper production
• Glass manufacturing
• Galvanizing and metal plating
• Textile industry
• Water treatment
• Production of various chemicals
• Metal extraction
• Explosive manufacturing
• Production of artificial silk
• Pesticide manufacturing
• Petrochemicals
• Production of various detergents and disinfectants
• Manufacturing of some pain relievers and anticoagulant drugs
• Perfume production
• Softening fruit skins for better peeling
• Used as a preservative in some food products

MSDS Summary for Caustic Soda

For storing caustic soda, the storage area should have adequate ventilation. Store this substance in appropriate packaging in a dry, cool environment. Avoid placing it next to incompatible materials, metals, acids, and oxidizing agents. Additionally, it should be kept away from moisture.

When caustic soda is mixed with water, it creates a highly exothermic and vigorous reaction. Therefore, it is recommended to read the MSDS sheet and instructions for using this substance carefully.