Caustic soda Flakes
Caustic Soda Flakes, also known as solid sodium hydroxide (NaOH), is a highly caustic, strong alkaline compound appearing as white flakes. It is produced by evaporating a 50% caustic soda (liquid NaOH) solution.
This material reacts vigorously with acids, light metals, water, oils, and fats, and is widely used across chemical, petrochemical, detergent, food, textile, and oil & gas industries.
Chemical Structure of Caustic Soda Flakes
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Chemical Name: Sodium Hydroxide
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Chemical Formula: NaOH
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Ionic Structure: Na⁺ and OH⁻ ions in an orthorhombic crystal lattice
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CAS Number: 1310-73-2
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EC Number: 215-185-5
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Molecular Weight: 40.00 g/mol
Physical and Chemical Properties
Property | Description |
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Physical State | White solid flakes |
Melting Point | 318°C |
Boiling Point / Decomposition | 1,388°C (decomposes to Na₂O and H₂O at high temperatures) |
Density | 2.13 g/cm³ |
pH (1% aqueous solution) | 13 – 14 |
Solubility in Water | Highly soluble; exothermic reaction upon dissolution |
Reactivity | Extremely reactive with water, acids, and light metals (e.g., aluminum, zinc) – releases flammable hydrogen gas |
Odor / Viscosity | Odorless; non-viscous (solid form) |
Applications of Caustic Soda Flakes
Detergent and Cleaning Industries
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Manufacturing of solid and liquid soaps, dishwashing liquids, degreasers, bleaches, and disinfectants
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Fat and oil removal in industrial wastewater treatment
Oil, Gas, and Petrochemical Industries
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Neutralization of acids in various processes
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Sweetening of crude oil and natural gas (removal of H₂S and CO₂)
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Regeneration of ion-exchange resins
Pulp, Paper, and Textile Industries
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Used in the Kraft process for separating cellulose fibers from wood
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pH control during dyeing, washing, and bleaching
Food Industry (Food Grade – E524)
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CIP (Cleaning in Place) for pipelines and storage tanks
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Used in chocolate, ice cream, soft drinks, and olive curing (in very small, controlled doses)
Metal and Surface Treatment
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Polishing and etching of aluminum surfaces
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Metal extraction from ores
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Scale removal and cleaning of industrial equipment
Advantages of Caustic Soda Flakes
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Highly effective in neutralizing acids and fats
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Low cost and readily available in bulk quantities
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Versatile – applicable across numerous industries
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Long-term stability when stored in dry conditions
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Flake form allows for easier handling, dosing, and storage
Disadvantages of Caustic Soda Flakes
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Highly corrosive to skin, eyes, and many metals
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Exothermic reaction with water → risk of chemical burns
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Hygroscopic – absorbs moisture from the air, leading to caking
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Requires alkali-resistant equipment for handling and transfer
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Corrosive to seals, valves, and light metal fittings
Safety and Handling Information
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GHS Classification: Corrosive – H314 (Causes severe skin burns and eye damage) – GHS Class 8
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Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
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Gloves: Neoprene or PVC
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Eye Protection: Safety goggles or face shield
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Respiratory Protection: Mask or respirator for dust exposure
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Clothing: Alkali-resistant lab coat or apron
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First Aid Measures:
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Skin/Eye Contact: Rinse immediately with plenty of water (at least 15 minutes) and seek medical attention
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Inhalation of Dust: Ensure proper ventilation; use filter respirator in enclosed areas
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Storage and Compatibility
Parameter | Recommended Condition |
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Storage Environment | Cool, dry, well-ventilated area |
Packaging | Moisture-proof triple-layer polypropylene bags (typically 25 kg) |
Compatibility | Keep away from acids, light metals, nitrogenous and halogenated organic compounds |
Handling Precautions | Avoid contact with water; prevent exposure to moisture and humidity |
Packaging and Transport
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Standard Packaging: 25 kg moisture-resistant PP bags with inner liner
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Transportation: Non-flammable but classified as Corrosive (GHS Class 8) — handle with appropriate labeling and containment
Applications
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Caustic soda Flakes
Products | Chemical formula | CAS number | Solubility in water | Grade | Vapor pressure | Melting point | Physical appearance | Density (at 20°C) |
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Sodium Hydroxide – Caustic Soda Perk | NaOH | 1310-73-2 | ~1,110 g/L (very soluble – exothermic reaction) | Industrial Grade, Analytical Grade, Food Grade (E524) | Practically negligible | 318°C | White solid, in the form of flakes, odorless | 2.13 g/cm³ |