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Properties of Sodium Hydroxide

Sodium hydroxide, commonly known as caustic soda or lye, is one of the most widely used alkalis in both industry and laboratory chemistry. It is a highly caustic, hygroscopic, and exothermic compound that reacts readily with water, acids, and certain metals.

Here are the key physical and chemical properties of sodium hydroxide:

• Chemical name: Sodium Hydroxide
• Synonyms: Caustic Soda, Lye, Sodium Hydrate, NaOH Pellets or Pearls
• Chemical formula: NaOH
• CAS number: 1310-73-2
• Appearance: White solid (flakes, pellets, or pearls)
• Odour: Odourless
• Molecular weight: 40.00 g/mol
• Density (solid): 2.13 g/cm³
• Melting point: 318°C
• Boiling point: 1,388°C
• Solubility: Highly soluble in water and ethanol; insoluble in nonpolar solvents
• pH (1% solution): Approximately 13–14
• Reactivity: Strongly alkaline and reacts vigorously with acids and water
• Corrosiveness: Extremely corrosive to skin, eyes, and metals

Due to its strong alkalinity and reactive nature, sodium hydroxide must be handled with care. It is an essential reagent in neutralisation, cleaning, and saponification processes, as well as a vital ingredient in many manufacturing industries.

What Is Sodium Hydroxide Used For?

Sodium hydroxide is an indispensable industrial chemical with a vast range of uses across different industries. Its ability to neutralise acids, dissolve organic materials, and break down fats makes it one of the most versatile bases available.

Common uses of sodium hydroxide include:

• Water treatment – Neutralising acidic waste streams and adjusting pH levels
• Chemical manufacturing – Acting as a chemical solution, reagent or catalyst in the production of other alkalis, surfactants, and polymers
• Pulp and paper industry – Used in the pulping process to separate lignin from cellulose fibres
• Textile industry – Assists in bleaching, dyeing, and treating fabrics for coating services
• Soap and detergent production – A key ingredient in saponification, converting fats and oils into soap
• Cleaning and degreasing – Used in industrial-strength cleaners, drain unblockers, and degreasers due to its ability to break down organic residue
• Petroleum refining – Removes acidic contaminants from hydrocarbons
• Food processing (in regulated concentrations) – Used to peel fruits and vegetables or process cocoa and soft drinks

Sodium Hydroxide Hazards

Sodium hydroxide causes severe skin burns and eye damage, so great care should be taken when handling this hazardous chemical. We recommend wearing appropriate personal protective equipment including gloves, safety glasses and overalls when handling this product, even if still sealed in its original packaging.

When working with sodium hydroxide, appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) must be worn at all times, including:

• Protective gloves and overalls
• Safety goggles or a face shield
• Closed, chemical-resistant footwear

Ensure the substance is handled only by trained personnel in well-ventilated areas. Even when sealed, containers should be treated with caution, as sodium hydroxide can absorb moisture from the air and generate heat when it reacts with water.

Please refer to the sodium hydroxide MSDS for detailed safety and precautionary information before handling the chemical.

Trusted Sodium Hydroxide Suppliers For almost 50 Years

If you’re wondering where to buy sodium hydroxide, look no further than ReAgent. We manufacture and supply a wide variety of sodium hydroxide products, including standard and reagent solutions.

Everything we manufacture is done to our ISO 9001 Quality Management Approved System, and has a 100% quality guarantee.

As a leading UK manufacturer and supplier of sodium hydroxide for almost 50 years, we are ideally placed to handle all of your enquiries.  Many of our customers now prefer the convenience and ease of being able to buy chemicals online.

However, if you would like to discuss your particular sodium hydroxide requirements with one of our Technical Sales Team, they are always here to help you and offer free technical advice and support. Just contact us below for more information.