Industrial use and price of sodium hydroxide

Sodium hydroxide is a base with the chemical formula NaOH. It is otherwise known as caustic soda or caustic soda. It is used primarily in the cosmetics, refining, paper and food industries - although the sodium base is highly corrosive and can be very dangerous to health. We explain what else sodium hydroxide is used for industrially and why it is worth buying it in an online wholesale store.

What is sodium hydroxide? A few words of theory

Sodium hydroxide belongs to the group of inorganic chemical compounds from the group of hydroxides. It is distinguished by a very low pH (1.4), which translates into strong corrosive properties. In solid form, NaOH has a white crystalline structure. Granules are hygroscopic, so they should be stored in tightly closed containers to prevent chemical moisture and air. Sodium hydroxide dissolves well in water, forming an irritating liquid that reacts with acids, non-metal oxides and hydroxides. In liquid form, it is soda lye.

This is the outline of the theory, but where in practice - and above all in business - will sodium hydroxide be used?

Food industry

In the food sector, sodium hydroxide is better known as E524. It is used as a food additive as an acidity regulator. We will find it in salted bread sticks and chips, chocolate or ice cream. As such, it is completely safe for health, because only a 30% solution of this compound is used.

Experts from the World Health Organization and Food and Agriculture are of the opinion that in a sufficiently low concentration, NaOH is completely safe for health. Toxicity, carcinogenicity, as well as negative effects on the fetus in the mother's womb were not found. The substance has been given the GRAS status (i.e. completely safe for health) and there is no maximum daily intake that should not be exceeded.

Gardening

Sodium hydroxide and its derivatives are also used in agriculture and horticulture to reduce the proliferation of weeds and other undesirable plants. Due to its loose consistency, it is suitable for use in hard-to-reach places, such as gaps between paving slabs. It can also be used as an antifungal preparation and a means of combating harmful pathogens causing e.g. leaf spot.

paper industry

Lye or caustic soda is used in the paper production process. Alkalis are used to dissolve the fibers chemically (this is the so-called Kraft method). Wood chips are combined with an aqueous solution of sodium hydroxide and sodium sulfide. Under the influence of appropriate temperature and pressure, the lignin dissolves and the cellulose fibers are released. The obtained pulp is bleached in order to obtain appropriately high utility properties of the paper.

Cosmetics industry

Sodium hydroxide is a commonly used compound in the manufacture of hard soaps, cleansers, face and body scrubs, and hair styling products. It is also used in preparations with antibacterial and antiseptic properties. It exhibits exfoliating properties and regulates the pH of a given cosmetic.

Petrochemical industry

Soda lye is of great importance in the production of liquid fuels - gasoline and diesel oil, but also asphalt. Sodium hydroxide solution removes impurities in the form of sulfur compounds and carbon dioxide and enables refining necessary to meet the legal requirements that determine the introduction of fuels to the market.

Clothing industry

An alkaline aqueous solution of NaOH is one of the best dye fixatives, used continuously since the 18th century. Thanks to it, both natural (plant) and artificial dyes last much longer, do not fade, do not wipe off and do not leave the blueprint in contact with the skin or other objects.

Where to buy sodium hydroxide?

The NaOH base is sold in stores with cosmetic raw materials and wholesalers that specialize in the sale of chemical intermediates. In the store, sodium hydroxide is offered both as an aqueous solution (soda lye) and as a solid. In both cases, it can be used as a direct reactant or a production component of one of the stages of production of the final product (e.g. paint or mortar). The big advantage of the commercial sale of the substance is its low price, cost-effective and large-size packaging, fast delivery and individual approach to the customer.

Many companies adjust the concentration of the finished solution to the customer's request depending on the needs. Thanks to this, the buyer receives a ready product for use in his company and does not have to worry about its treatment.

Where to buy sodium hydroxide? In Warsaw and other large cities, the prices of chemical raw materials are constantly rising. Therefore, it is worth paying attention to online sales. At Distripark, we sell sodium hydroxide as well as raw materials and other chemical intermediates at bargain prices and in large enough packaging for industrial use.

Why buy sodium hydroxide at Distripark?

The Distripark platform is part of the PCC trading group, which produces chemical and cosmetic raw materials . This means that many of the goods available in our store come directly from the manufacturer. Customers choosing Distripark choose quality, experience and international standards of customer service. For years, we have been present on the Polish market, but also European and Asian markets. Whether you run a small food manufacturing business or manage a large apparel company, we have what you need.