What is Soda ash?
Sodium carbonate is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula Na2CO3 and various hydrates. It is also known as dishwashing liquid, soda crystals or sodium ash.
Soda ash characteristics
It is a white, odorless salt that is soluble in water, forming an alkaline solution in water. Here is some key information about sodium carbonate:
- Sodium carbonate was formerly extracted from the ash of plants grown in soil rich in sodium, which is why it is called "soda ash".
- The concentration of sodium carbonate in sodium carbonate varies widely, from 2 to 3% for the algae-derived form to 30% for the best barilla produced from salt plants in Spain. Today, sodium carbonate is commercially synthesized from salt and other chemicals using the Leblanc process.
- Sodium carbonate is the tenth most consumed inorganic compound in the world and has been used for more than 5,000 years.
- Sodium carbonate is considered safe and easy to use.
Soda ash applications
Sodium carbonate is a versatile compound that has many applications in various industries. Here are some of its main uses of Sodium carbonate:
Glass production
More than half of total sodium carbonate production is used in glass manufacturing, including glass containers, fiberglass insulation and flat glass.
Detergents and soaps
Sodium carbonate is used as an ingredient in detergents and soap powders, acting as a cleaning agent and pH regulator.
Water treatment
It is used to increase the alkalinity of lakes and as a water softener in dish soap and other household cleaners.
Textile industry
Sodium carbonate is a common ingredient in textile production, acting as a detergent and dye fixative, helping to improve the longevity of dyes in textile fibers while retaining their color.
Paper production
Sodium carbonate is used in the papermaking process to improve the strength of the pulp by increasing its water holding capacity.
Food industry
Sodium carbonate is used as an ingredient in dehydrated foods, table salt products, and can be found in some food products such as crackers and pretzels.
Purify old air
Sodium carbonate is used in the exhaust air cleaning process to remove dust through a process called ozonation.
Cleaning concrete floors
It is used to clean residue from concrete floors through a process called hydroblasting, in which water is mixed with a special sodium carbonate and sprayed onto the floor.
Increase pH
Sodium carbonate is used to increase pH in a variety of applications, such as tie dyeing, helping the dye adhere to fabric and maintain vibrant colors.
