Sodium hydroxide (NaOH), also known as lye and caustic soda is an inorganic compound.
It is a white solid and highly caustic metallic base and alkali of sodium which is available in pellets, flakes, granules, and as prepared solutions at different concentrations.
Sodium hydroxide is used in many industries, mostly as a strong chemical base in the manufacture of pulp and paper, textiles, drinking water, soaps and detergents and as a drain cleaner.
Properties:
- Pure sodium hydroxide is a whitish solid, sold in pellets, flakes, and granular form, as well as in solution.
- Sodium hydroxide is soluble in water, ethanol, and methanol.
- Dissolution of solid sodium hydroxide in water is a highly exothermic reaction.
- This alkali is deliquescent and readily absorbs moisture and carbon dioxide in air.
