Sodium carbonate, also known as soda ash or washing soda, is a chemical compound with the formula Na₂CO₃. It is a white, crystalline solid that is highly soluble in water. Sodium carbonate has been used for centuries in various applications and is one of the most important industrial chemicals.
Here are some key aspects of sodium carbonate:
Chemical Properties: Sodium carbonate consists of two sodium ions (Na⁺) and one carbonate ion (CO₃²⁻). It has a molecular weight of 105.99 g/mol. Occurrence: Sodium carbonate occurs naturally in mineral deposits, such as trona and nahcolite. These minerals can be mined and processed to obtain sodium carbonate.
Production:
The majority of sodium carbonate is produced synthetically through the Solvay process. This process involves the reaction of sodium chloride (common salt) with ammonia and carbon dioxide to produce sodium carbonate.
Uses: Sodium carbonate has a wide range of applications across various industries.
Some common uses include:
Manufacturing of glass: Sodium carbonate is a key ingredient in the glass-making industry. It helps lower the melting point of silica, making it easier to shape into glass products.
Water treatment: Sodium carbonate is used in water treatment processes to adjust pH levels and soften water by removing hardness caused by calcium and magnesium ions.
Detergents and cleaning products: It is a crucial component in many laundry detergents and cleaning agents due to its ability to remove grease, stains, and dirt effectively.
pH regulator: Sodium carbonate is used as a buffering agent and pH regulator in several applications, including swimming pools, food processing, and pharmaceuticals. Chemical
manufacturing: It serves as a precursor for the production of other chemicals, such as sodium bicarbonate (baking soda), sodium percarbonate, and sodium silicates.
Food industry: Sodium carbonate is used in food applications as a food additive, pH adjuster, and leavening agent in baking.
Safety and Precautions: Sodium carbonate is generally considered safe when used appropriately.
However, it is caustic and can cause irritation or burns to the skin and eyes. It should be handled with care and kept out of reach of children. Remember, if you plan to use sodium carbonate for any specific purpose, it's essential to follow the recommended guidelines and safety precautions provided by the manufacturer. |
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TEST ITEMS |
TEST STANDARD |
TOTAL ALKALI CONTENT
(AS Na2CO3 ON DRY BASIS) |
≥99.2%
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TOTAL ALKALI CONTENT
( AS Na2CO3 ON WET BASIS) |
≤97.9%
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CHLORIDE
( AS NaCl ON DRY BASIS) |
≤0.70%
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Fe
(AS Fe ON DRY BASIS) |
≤0.0035%
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SULFATE
(AS SO4 ON DRY BASIS) |
≤0.03%
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WATER INSOLUBLE MATTER
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≤0.03%
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BULK DENSITY (G/ML)
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≥0.90%
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