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The eminence and uses of sodium hydroxide

by Sagar Chauhan Digital Marketing Analyst
Sodium hydroxide is also known as caustic soda which is an inorganic compound that contains sodium cations and hydroxide anions. It is of a highly caustic base and contains alkali that helps in decomposing proteins at ambient temperatures. Also, it is extremely soluble in water and absorbs moisture and carbon dioxide easily. Sodium hydroxide that is available for commercial purpose is often a monohydrate and referred to as an anhydrous compound. There are diverse uses of sodium hydroxide flakes such as in the production of pulp and paper, as a drain cleaner, in the textile industry, in soaps and detergents, etc. To know more about sodium hydroxide, keep reading. 

Physical properties of sodium chloride 
Sodium chloride looks like a colorless crystalline solid that is highly soluble in water and low solubility with the polar solvents. It offers a colorless and odorless solution. This fluid solution has a characteristic viscosity which is more than water and near to olive oil. Also, it forms several hydrates. 

Production of solid sodium hydroxide 
Sodium hydroxide is produced as a 50 % solution that is obtained by the evaporation of water during the electrolytic chloralkali process. It is thus produced in forms like prills, flakes, and cast blocks. The production of sodium hydroxide is done by treating sodium carbonate with calcium hydroxide in a metathesis reaction.

Uses of sodium hydroxide 
There are numerous uses of sodium hydroxide. It is a well-known strong base used in the industry. Around 25% of the sodium hydroxide is used in the paper industry and remaining is used in the production of organic synthesis, pH regulation, sodium salts, and detergents. Also, it is used in the Bayer process of aluminum production. It is widely used in the petroleum industry as an additive to increase the alkalinity and mud viscosity as well as to neutralize any type of acid. In addition, a poor-quality crude oil can be treated using sodium hydroxide that helps in removing the sulphurous impurities as well. 

Sodium hydroxide is widely used in cleaning and disinfectant products. It is used for manufacturing soaps and detergents, which are further used in homes and commercial applications. It is used in the production of pharmaceuticals and medicines.

As sodium chloride has strong corrosive properties, its exposure can cause skin and eye irritation. Special care should be taken while handling sodium hydroxide. There are numerous sodium hydroxide flakes suppliers who offer a quality product in bulk. To contact them, one can easily search the internet.

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About Sagar Chauhan Senior   Digital Marketing Analyst

167 connections, 3 recommendations, 550 honor points.
Joined APSense since, November 30th, 2016, From Delhi, India.

Created on Mar 26th 2019 04:33. Viewed 186 times.

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