Caustic soda is a common industrial chemical used across multiple sectors, but many people may wonder: What is the chemical name of caustic soda? The answer lies in basic chemistry and understanding its structure, formula, and function.

The Chemical Name of Caustic Soda

The chemical name of caustic soda is sodium hydroxide. It is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula NaOH, composed of sodium (Na⁺), hydroxide (OH⁻) ions.

• Common Name: Caustic Soda
• Chemical Name: Sodium Hydroxide
• Chemical Formula: NaOH
• Molar Mass: 40.00 g/mol

Sodium hydroxide is a strong base, highly reactive with acids, and highly soluble in water, releasing significant heat during the process.

Physical Properties of Sodium Hydroxide

• Appearance: White solid flakes, pellets, or granules
• Odor: Odorless
• Solubility: Soluble in water and ethanol
• Melting Point: 318°C (604°F)
• Boiling Point: 1,388°C (2,530°F)

Due to its corrosive nature, sodium hydroxide must be handled with proper safety equipment and storage procedures.

Common Applications of Sodium Hydroxide

Sodium hydroxide (NaOH) is essential in several industries:

• Chemical manufacturing – used to produce soaps, detergents, and dyes
• Paper and pulp – for lignin removal in the Kraft pulping process
• Textile processing – in mercerization of cotton
• Water treatment – for pH control and acid neutralization
• Oil refining – to remove acidic impurities
• Aluminum production – in Bayer process for extracting alumina

Its strong alkalinity makes it a powerful agent in both production and waste treatment processes.

Why Is It Called “Caustic Soda”?

The term “caustic” refers to its ability to burn or corrode organic tissue, while “soda” comes from its sodium content. Despite its hazardous properties, it remains one of the most useful chemical bases in modern industry.

Caustic Soda Iran – Global Exporter of Sodium Hydroxide

Caustic Soda Iran, a division of Shetab Gostar Nadin Trading Co., is a specialized exporter of high-purity sodium hydroxide flakes (≥98%). We provide:

• Secure packaging (25 kg double-layer bags / jumbo bags)
• Flexible shipping (EXW, FCA, FOB)
• Global distribution with on-time delivery
• Full documentation including COA and MSDS

Our products are trusted in industries across the Middle East, Africa, Asia, and Europe.

Conclusion

The chemical name of caustic soda is sodium hydroxide (NaOH), a strong base with diverse industrial uses. Whether in manufacturing, refining, or water treatment, it plays a vital role. For reliable supply, Caustic Soda Iran is your global partner in sourcing premium-grade NaOH flakes.