Caustic Soda / Sodium Hydroxide

Caustic soda is the chemical compound sodium hydroxide (NaOH). This compound is an alkali – a type of base that can neutralize acids and is soluble in water. Today caustic soda can be manufactured in the form of pellets, flakes, powders, solutions and more.

Caustic soda has become a common ingredient in the production of many everyday items. Commonly known as lye, it has been used to make soap, and its ability to dissolve grease makes it a common ingredient in oven cleaners and products used to unclog drains. 

Properties 

•        It is a white solid.
•        It is a stable compound.
•         NaOH is bitter and has a soapy feel to it.
•        It is highly soluble in water and moderately soluble in alcohol.
•        Sodium hydroxide is strongly alkaline in nature.

Uses

•        It is used as a cleansing agent and in the manufacturing of washing soda.
•        Sometimes, sodium hydroxide is also used as a reagent in the laboratories.
•        It is used in the preparation of soda lime.