Caustic soda, also known as sodium hydroxide,
is a highly reactive and corrosive compound with the chemical formula
NaOH. It is commonly used in a wide range of industrial applications,
such as paper manufacturing, soap making, and chemical processing.
: Caustic soda is typically produced through the
electrolysis of salt water, using either a diaphragm cell, a mercury cell,
or a membrane cell. The process involves separating sodium ions and
chloride ions in the salt water and passing an electric current through
them to produce sodium hydroxide and chlorine gas.
Caustic soda is used in a variety of industrial
applications, including the production of pulp and paper, textiles, soap
and detergents, and various chemicals. It is also used in the petroleum
industry for oil refining and in the production of aluminum and other
metals.
Caustic soda is a white, odorless solid at room
temperature and is highly soluble in water. It has a high pH, which
makes it highly reactive and corrosive.
Caustic soda products are subject to
various standards and regulations to ensure their safety and quality,
including standards for purity, concentration, and packaging.
