Sodium hydroxide NaOH is produced by the electrolytic decomposition of sodium hydroxide solution, using the amalgam method.
CAS number: 1310-73-2
PROPERTIES
Sodium hydroxide is strongly alkaline, colourless and clear viscous liquid, sometimes slightly muddy, without mechanical dirt. It is easily soluble in alcohol. At temperatures below 10°C, crystallisation of the product occurs. Reaction with water is strongly exothermic. Strong reaction to acids.
TECHNICAL DATA:
|
|
Type 1 |
Type 2 |
| Density at 20 °C, min. |
kg/m3 |
1 502 |
1 506 |
| Total alkalinity, expressed as NaOH, min. |
vol. % |
47,5 |
48 |
| Sodium carbonate content (Na2CO3), max. |
vol. % |
0,5 |
| Sodium chloride content (NaCl), max. |
vol. % |
0,014 |
| Fe3+ content, max. |
vol. % |
0,001 |
| (Hg) content, max. |
ppm |
0,1 |
APPLICATION
Sodium hydroxide is widely used in the chemical, textile, paper, metallurgical, and food -stuff industries, in the processing of fats, oils, soaps, etc. In the chemical industry it is used for the production of sodium compounds and is also used as a reaction component in inorganic and organic synthesis.
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS AND HEALTH PROTECTION
Sodium hydroxide is an aggressive caustic, non-flammable liquid. It is not explosive. During work, it is necessary to abide by the respective rules concerning work with caustics and other health endangering matters. At work, employees are to use personal protective aids: respirator, breathing equipment (at high humidity, dust concentration, aerosols production), isolating clothing (rubber apron), rubber gloves, protective goggles or shield. When etching occurs, a doctor must be sought immediately.
PACKING, TRANSPORTATION AND STORAGE
Sodium hydroxide is supplied in rail tanks as provided by the producer, or in appropriate packaging of the customer (road-tanks, containers). Each storage unit must be tagged according to Act No. 163/2001, RID and ADR regulations. The shipment has to be accompanied by quality certificate, which may be substituted by shipping document clause. Transportation is performed based on valid regulations. Sodium hydroxide is stored in sealed containers, in a dry, well-ventilated storage area, in metal, rubber coated or polyethylene containers away from acids. As sodium hydroxide in the concentration produced crystallise at temperatures below 10°C, these containers have to be heated and insulated. Upon keeping the mentioned requirements the product storage life can be guaranteed for 6 months.
The presented instructions are to be considered as general and may be modified with regard to local conditions.
