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Sodium hydroxide (NaOH), commonly known as
caustic soda or lye, is a highly versatile and widely used chemical compound.
It is a white, odorless solid that is highly soluble in water and has a
slippery texture.
Here are the details of Sodium Hydroxide along with its CAS number:
Chemical formula: NaOH
CAS (Chemical Abstracts Service) number:
1310-73-2
Molecular weight: 39.9971 g/mol
Density: 2.13 g/cm³ (solid)
Melting point: 318 °C (604 °F; 591 K)
Boiling point: 1,388 °C (2,530 °F; 1,661 K)
Solubility in water: Highly soluble,
exothermic reaction, forming a strongly alkaline solution
Sodium hydroxide is composed of sodium ions (Na+) and hydroxide ions (OH-). It is produced industrially by the electrolysis of salt (sodium chloride) solution through the chloralkali process.
Here are some common uses of Sodium Hydroxide:
1. Chemical Manufacturing: Sodium hydroxide is used in the production of various chemicals, including soaps, detergents, bleach, paper, textiles, and pharmaceuticals. It is a key ingredient in the manufacture of sodium salts, organic chemicals, and surfactants.
2. Pulp and Paper Industry: Sodium hydroxide is used in the pulp and paper industry for pulping, bleaching, and papermaking processes. It helps break down lignin and remove impurities from wood pulp to produce high-quality paper products.
3. Textile Industry: Sodium hydroxide is used in the textile industry for mercerization, a process that improves the strength, luster, and dye affinity of cotton fibers. It also helps remove impurities and finishes from textile fabrics.
4. Aluminum Production: Sodium hydroxide is used in the aluminum industry for refining bauxite ore into alumina (aluminum oxide). It dissolves silica and other impurities from bauxite and facilitates the extraction of pure alumina for aluminum production.
5. Cleaning and Degreasing: Sodium hydroxide is used as a strong base and degreasing agent in household and industrial cleaning products. It effectively removes grease, oils, fats, and proteinaceous soils from surfaces, equipment, and drains.
6. pH Adjustment: Sodium hydroxide is used to adjust pH levels in water and wastewater treatment processes. It neutralizes acidic wastewater and helps precipitate heavy metals and other contaminants for removal.
7. Food Processing: Sodium hydroxide is used in food processing for various purposes, including peeling fruits and vegetables, processing cocoa, and refining edible oils and fats. It is also used as a pH regulator and alkalinity adjuster in food products.
Sodium hydroxide is valued for its strong alkalinity, solubility, and versatility in various industrial processes. However, it is a highly caustic and reactive substance that can cause severe burns and eye damage. Proper safety precautions, including the use of protective equipment and handling procedures, should be followed when working with sodium hydroxide.
If you need further information or have specific questions, feel free to ask!