Caustic Soda

Caustic soda, also known as sodium hydroxide (NaOH), is one of those behind-the-scenes chemicals that quietly keeps the modern world running. It’s a strong base — a white, odorless solid that easily dissolves in water, releasing heat and forming a slippery, corrosive liquid.

It’s not something you’d want to touch, but you’d definitely notice if it vanished from industry. Despite its harsh nature, caustic soda plays a surprisingly helpful role. It’s used to:

• Clean and purify: Whether it’s unclogging drains or refining petroleum, it’s there doing the dirty work.
• Make everyday products: Paper, soap, detergents, textiles — caustic soda is essential in producing all of them.
• Balance chemistry: In water treatment, it adjusts pH levels to keep our drinking water safe.
• Support food production: It’s used (in very small, safe amounts) to peel fruits and process cocoa and soft drinks.