- Production:
- Sodium hydroxide is produced through the electrolysis of sodium chloride (salt). In this process, salt is dissolved in water and subjected to electrolysis to yield sodium hydroxide and chlorine gas. The sodium hydroxide is then purified.
- Applications:
- Chemical Industry: Sodium hydroxide is used in the production of many chemical products. It is also used in the manufacturing of soap, detergents, and cleaning agents.
- Water Treatment: Sodium hydroxide is used in water treatment plants to adjust pH levels.
- Pulp and Paper Industry: It is used in the bleaching process during paper and pulp production.
- Petroleum Refineries: Petroleum refineries use sodium hydroxide for the separation and processing of hydrocarbons.
- Food Industry: Sodium hydroxide is used in the processing of certain food products, particularly for adjusting components in items like molasses and grain-based foods.
Sodium Hydroxide Properties:
- Chemical Formula: NaOH
Molecular Weight: Approximately 40.00 g/mol
Physical State: White solid or liquid (depending on the form)
Odor: Odorless
Density: Approximately 2.13 g/cm³ in solid form, about 1.53 g/cm³ in liquid form
Melting Point: 318 °C (solid form)
Boiling Point: 1,388 °C (solid form)
Solubility: Highly soluble in water
- Hazard Symbols: It is a strong base and contact with skin can cause severe burns.