Sodium hydroxide solution 50% canister 25 kg

SODIUM HYDROXIDE 50% (caustic soda, lye)

• Synonyms: caustic soda, lye, sodium hydroxide solution, sodium hydroxide solution 50%, caustic soda lye
• CAS / EC No: 1310-73-2 / 215-185-5
• Chemical formula (active substance): NaOH
• Molar mass (NaOH): 40.00 g/mol
• Working concentration: 50% (w/w)
• Form / appearance: colorless to slightly opalescent liquid, odorless
• Chemical reaction: strongly alkaline, reacts vigorously with acids (neutralization reactions), reacts with some metals (e.g. Al, Zn) releasing hydrogen
• pH: 13–14 (20 °C)
• Density: ≈ 1.53 kg/l (20 °C)
• Freezing point: ≈ 12 °C (possible crystallization in cold)
• Solubility: very good in water (miscible in any ratio); dilution is highly exothermic
• Ionic conductivity: high (electrolytic solution)
• Material compatibility: recommended: carbon steel, stainless steel, PE, PP, PVC, PTFE; avoid: aluminum, zinc, light alloys, glass at elevated temperatures.
• Storage conditions: airtight, covered, ventilated; protect from frost and sunlight; maintain temperature > 15 °C for 50% to prevent crystallization

What is it and how does it work?

Sodium hydroxide in solution (caustic soda, lye) is a key, highly alkaline inorganic reagent used for pH regulation, acid neutralization, and conducting saponification, hydrolysis, and alkalization reactions in numerous industrial processes. The 50% solution combines a high active substance content with good stability, facilitating automatic dosing in installations. Due to the highly exothermic nature of dilution, preparation of solutions always requires adding lye to water, never the other way around, and using appropriate heat exchangers and process safeguards.

Main industrial applications

1. Chemical industry:

• Production of cleaning agents: Lye is a key ingredient in the production of various detergents and cleaning agents. It reacts with fats and oils to form soaps (saponification process).
• Chemical synthesis: Used as a reagent in many chemical reactions where an alkaline environment is required.

2. Pulp and paper industry:

• Lignin breakdown: Caustic soda is used to remove lignin from cellulose in wood, which is crucial in the production of white paper. This allows for the production of pure cellulose, necessary for high-quality paper production.

3. Food processing:

• Cleaning and disinfection: Lye is used for washing and disinfecting equipment and surfaces that come into contact with food, especially in the dairy and meat industries.
• Acidity regulation: Used to adjust pH in food products, affecting taste, texture, and preservation of products.

4. Water treatment:

• Neutralization of acids: Caustic soda is used to neutralize acidic contaminants in industrial processes and wastewater treatment plants.
• pH regulation: Helps maintain appropriate pH levels in industrial and municipal water systems.

5. Petroleum industry:

• Neutralization of acids: Used to neutralize acidic contaminants in oil processing.
• Drilling fluids: Component of drilling fluids used to stabilize well walls and prevent corrosion.

6. Aluminum production:

• Bayer process: Caustic soda is a key component in the process of extracting aluminum from bauxite, where it is used to dissolve aluminum oxide, allowing for its subsequent extraction.

7. Textile industry:

• Mercerization: Lye is used to treat cotton, increasing its luster, strength, and ability to absorb dyes.

Precautions:

When handling sodium hydroxide, it is essential to use appropriate protective equipment, including safety goggles, chemical-resistant gloves, and protective clothing. The product should be stored in tightly closed containers away from acidic materials and in a cool, dry place to avoid moisture and CO₂ absorption from the air.

Hazardous products should be used with caution. Read the label and product information before each use.

Product safety information Manufacturer information