Caustic soda flakes are a solid form of sodium hydroxide widely used in many industries. Thanks to their high purity, strong alkalinity, and convenient handling, they are preferred in applications where liquid caustic soda is not practical. Understanding how caustic soda flakes are made and where they are used helps buyers choose the right product for their processes.
How Caustic Soda Flakes Are Produced
The production of caustic soda flakes starts with sodium hydroxide solution made through the electrolysis of brine. During electrolysis, salt water is processed using electricity to produce sodium hydroxide, chlorine gas, and hydrogen gas. The resulting sodium hydroxide solution usually has a concentration of about 30–32%.
To turn this liquid into flakes, the solution goes through an evaporation stage. Water is removed under controlled heating until the concentration becomes very high. The concentrated liquid is then fed onto a rotating cooled drum called a flaker. When the hot liquid touches the cold surface, it solidifies into a thin layer. This layer is scraped off as small flakes, which are then collected and packed.
This process creates a product with very low moisture content and high purity, making it suitable for industrial use.
Key Properties of Caustic Soda Flakes
Caustic soda flakes are white, odorless, and highly alkaline. One major advantage is their solid form. Compared to liquid sodium hydroxide, flakes are easier to transport, store, and measure. They are free-flowing and dissolve quickly in water to form a strong alkaline solution.
However, they are hygroscopic. This means they can absorb moisture from the air. If exposed to humidity, the flakes may stick together and lose flowability. Proper sealed packaging and dry storage are important to maintain product quality.
Storage and Handling Guidelines
Caustic soda flakes should be stored in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated warehouse. Packaging must be tightly sealed to prevent moisture absorption. The product should also be kept away from acids and reactive chemicals, as sodium hydroxide reacts strongly with acidic materials and may release heat.
When handling caustic soda flakes, workers should wear protective gloves and eye protection. As a strong alkali, it can cause burns if it contacts skin or eyes.
Major Industrial Applications of Caustic Soda Flakes
Adhesives Industry
Caustic soda flakes are used in the production of certain adhesives. They help control chemical reactions that build the adhesive structure, improving bonding strength and performance. Manufacturers adjust the dosage to match different adhesive formulations.
Agricultural Chemicals
In agrochemical production, caustic soda is used to control pH during chemical synthesis. This helps reactions proceed efficiently when producing pesticides and some fertilizer intermediates.
Food and Beverage Cleaning
Caustic soda solutions made from flakes are widely used for cleaning equipment in food processing plants. The strong alkaline solution removes fats, oils, and protein residues from pipes and tanks. Strict rinsing and control procedures ensure food safety standards are met.
Textile Industry
In textile manufacturing, caustic soda flakes are dissolved to prepare solutions used in mercerization. This treatment improves cotton fiber strength, shine, and dye absorption, helping produce higher-quality fabrics.
Why Choose Caustic Soda Flakes for Your Industry?
Caustic soda flakes offer high purity, easy handling, flexible dosing, and wide industrial compatibility. They are suitable for manufacturers that need a strong and reliable alkaline chemical in solid form. With correct storage and safe handling, they provide stable performance across many applications.
If you are looking for consistent quality caustic soda flakes for industrial use, we can provide stable supply, multiple packaging options, and technical support to match your production needs.
Contact us today for specifications, pricing, and shipping details.
