Caustic soda, also known as sodium hydroxide or lye, has the chemical formula NaOH and is a highly corrosive base and alkali. Pure caustic soda is a crystalline solid that is highly soluble in water. The majority of caustic soda is produced by the electrolytic decomposition of salt (NaCl) in the chlor-alkali process, which also produces chlorine gas and hydrogen. Caustic soda is mostly consumed as a 50% solution with water. Consumption reflects manufacturing activity and the consumption of durable and non-durable goods, especially as primary use segments include alumina refining for aluminum goods production, pulp and paper production for print and packaging, chemicals for the production of a multitude of consumer goods and agricultural products, textiles manufacturing, and many other applications.
