Caustic Soda is a term mostly used by traders. As the substance has a corrosive and caustic feature, traders call it caustic soda. Another synonym for caustic soda, is sodium hydroxide which has been derived from its chemical properties as a sodium hydrate.
This product is also known as lye and soda because of its strong alkali nature. As an alkali or base, caustic soda is soluble in water and cause other chemicals burn.
Sodium Hydroxide: used mostly by chemists, because of its sodium ions,
Caustic Soda: used mostly among traders, because of its corrosive and caustic feature,
Lye and Soda: because of its strong alkali.
What are Various Forms of Caustic Soda?
Caustic soda can be found in many forms and types such as liquid, flakes, granular, cubes and blocks depends on the usage. However, the liquid and flake forms are far efficient than other types.
Liquid caustic soda which is mainly produced in China, is suitable for pulp and paper industry, water and sewerage treatments and as additive in food industry.
Suggestion: You can read about Caustic Soda applications in Food Industry
Producers and suppliers provide the market with liquid caustic soda as 50% and 73% solutions in water.
Being environmentally friendly is the advantage of this form due to its moderate impact on environment. In water, sodium hydroxide is dissolved to sodium and hydroxide ion and become neutralized.
It is worth to mention that liquid form is much more energy-efficient. These pros are remarkable for eliminating energy waste and reducing final costs.
Another popular form of this product is Flake, which absorbs water faster than Granular and cube. This feature results in less heat release and thus lowers the risk of explosion.
In comparison to granular, cubes, and blocks, these two forms have more competitive prices, respecting higher production rates.
What are Caustic Soda Properties?
austic soda has usually a solid form. But be careful not to put it in a wet place, because the substance can absorb water very easily. If you dissolve caustic soda in water, it bubbles, splash and produce a reasonable amount of heat. That’s why it is recommended to keep caustic soda away from wet surfaces and humidity.
Caustic soda is also a corrosive substance. It reacts vigorously with some metals such as aluminum, magnesium, zinc, and tin. This kind of reaction may be hazardous and lead to explosion, mainly because a huge amount of hydrogen is generated. This means caustic soda cannot be handled without having safety rules in mind.