Oil & Gas Exploration and Production Chemicals
Sodium Hydroxide

Chemical Description

Sodium hydroxide forms white, waxy, odorless, opaque crystals which are commonly commercially available as pellets, granules, or flakes. However, it is most commonly available dissolved into a solution with water at 50%. This is because it is much more safe and easier to handle in solution than in solid form.

Common Industrial Uses of Sodium Hydroxide

More than half of all sodium hydroxide produced worldwide is used in the chemical industry wherever a strong base is called for. It may be used to increase the alkalinity of a mixture, or neutralize an acid mixture. For instance, sodium hydroxide is used extensively in the oil and drilling industries to increase the alkalinity of mud being drilled into and neutralize any acidic gasses produced.
More than a quarter of all sodium hydroxide produced is used in the multiple processes which are used to pulp paper products.
Throughout history, sodium hydroxide has been used to make soap. Today, it is also used as a catalyst in the manufacture of biodiesel fuels.
It is used as an industrial cleaning agent for its ability to cut through grease, fats, proteins, and oils. It is also the main active ingredient of most household drain cleaning solutions on the market today.

While concentrated sodium hydroxide is toxic to humans, low-concentration food applications are in use today. You can find sodium hydroxide as an ingredient or used in the process for making many foods from around the world. However, low-concentration mixtures of sodium hydroxide are not available to consumers, so in household applications sodium carbonate is often used as a substitute.

Chemical Formula

• NaOH

CAS No.

• 1310-73-2

Minimum Order Quantity

20 ton (40,000 pound) minimum order.
Note: CCUSA is a wholesale industrial and commercial bulk chemical supplier.

Safety Considerations

Sodium hydroxide is a highly corrosive base and as such it will decompose proteins and lipids in the skin, eyes, and other body tissues. This can and will cause chemical burns on skin and blindness if they eyes are exposed. If exposed to sodium hydroxide in any form, immediate first aid is required, starting with washing the affected area in water for at least 15 minutes. Proper personal protective equipment (PPE) must be used at all times when handling sodium hydroxide. This PPE should include appropriate gloves, goggles or face shield, and apron. Consult the MSDS for your product to ensure proper handling techniques are observed.

Common Names / Also Known As

• Sodium oxidanide
• Caustic soda
• lye
• Ascarite
• White caustic
• Sodium hydrate