Soda, also known as sodium hydroxide, is a chemical substance with the chemical formula NaOH. It is a highly alkaline substance with corrosive and irritating properties, commonly used in industrial production and laboratories. The main components of caustic soda are sodium ions and hydroxide ions, which produce a strong alkaline solution of sodium hydroxide in water. Alkali can react with acid to produce salt and water, and this reaction is called acid-base neutralization reaction. Caustic soda can also react with some metals to produce corresponding metal hydroxides and hydrogen gas.
Caustic soda is a highly corrosive strong alkali, generally in the form of flakes or blocks, easily soluble in water and forming alkaline solutions, and also has deliquescence. It is easy to absorb water vapor and carbon dioxide from the air and can be tested for deterioration by adding hydrochloric acid.
Sodium hydroxide has a corrosive effect on fibers, skin, glass, ceramics, etc. When dissolved or diluted with a concentrated solution, it will release heat; Neutralization reaction with inorganic acids can also generate a large amount of heat, generating corresponding salts; React with metallic aluminum and zinc, non-metallic boron and silicon to release hydrogen from the chemical book; Disproportionation reaction occurs with halogens such as chlorine, bromine, and iodine.
The main properties of caustic soda:
Strong alkalinity: caustic soda can react with acid to produce a reaction between salt and water, and is a strong alkaline substance.
Corrosiveness: caustic soda has strong corrosiveness and can cause burns when in contact with skin, mucous membranes, etc.
Hygroscopicity: caustic soda has hygroscopicity, absorbing moisture from the air and forming hydrates, so it needs to be stored in a dry environment.
The main uses of caustic soda:
Chemical industry: caustic soda is an important raw material for preparing other chemicals, such as cellulose, phosphoric acid, nitric acid, etc.
Metallurgical industry: caustic soda can be used in the electrolytic preparation process of aluminum.
Petrochemical industry: caustic soda can be used in processes such as dewaxing and decolorization of petroleum.
Life use: caustic soda can be used in the preparation of cleaning agents, soap, bleach, hair removal agents, etc.
Notes:
It is very important to wear protective equipment when using caustic soda. Caustic soda has strong corrosiveness and can easily cause damage to the skin and eyes. Therefore, when using caustic soda, protective equipment such as gloves, goggles, and protective clothing must be worn to prevent caustic soda from splashing onto the body or entering the eyes and causing injury.
2. The correct operating method must also be noted. When using caustic soda, the correct operating steps should be followed, such as slowly adding caustic soda powder to water instead of pouring water into the caustic soda to avoid violent reactions. Meanwhile, caution should be taken during the operation to avoid splashing or splashing of caustic soda.
In addition to the above two points, there are also some other precautions, such as:
1. Soda should be stored in a dry, ventilated, and cool place to avoid moisture and heat.
When using caustic soda, attention should be paid to the safety of the surrounding environment to avoid reacting with other substances and causing accidents.
3. After using caustic soda, the utensils and tools used should be cleaned in a timely manner to avoid secondary pollution caused by residual caustic soda.
