Caustic Soda, chemically known as Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH), is a white, solid, ionic compound with a melting point of 596 K (323°C). It is a strong alkali and one of the most important inorganic bases used across numerous industrial sectors.
This substance has a bitter, soapy feel and is highly caustic, capable of reacting vigorously with acids and other organic materials. Caustic Soda is highly soluble in water, releasing significant heat upon dissolution, and is sparingly soluble in alcohol. It is widely used in the chemical, petrochemical, paper, textile, detergent, and water treatment industries.
Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH), commonly known as Caustic Soda, is one of the most versatile and essential industrial chemicals, widely used across manufacturing, pharmaceutical, food, and water treatment sectors. Its strong alkalinity and reactivity make it indispensable in both chemical synthesis and industrial processing.
Major Industrial Applications
1. Soap and Detergent Production
Sodium Hydroxide is a key ingredient in the manufacture of soaps, detergents, and cleaning products used in household and commercial applications. It enables saponification, the process that converts fats and oils into soap, ensuring effective cleaning performance and consistency in product quality.
2. Pharmaceutical Industry
Used as a reactant and pH adjuster in the production of numerous medicines and pharmaceutical products. It plays a role in the manufacture of aspirin, anticoagulants (for blood clot prevention), and cholesterol-lowering drugs, where controlled alkalinity is crucial for synthesis and stability.
3. Water Treatment
In municipal and industrial water treatment plants, Sodium Hydroxide is used to regulate water acidity (pH control) and precipitate heavy metals from contaminated water. It helps maintain safe, balanced pH levels and improves water purity and quality for both industrial and public use.
4. Food Processing Industry
Caustic Soda is approved for use in specific food preparation and preservation processes. It is used in curing olives, peeling fruits and vegetables, and in pretzel production, where it contributes to the characteristic brown color and crunchy texture of Bavarian-style pretzels.
