Sodium Carbonate (SODA ASH)

CAS Number:

497-19-8 (anhydrous)

Chemical Name: 

Sodium Carbonate. Commonly known as Soda Ash, Washing Soda

Molecular Formula:

Na2CO3

Molecular Weight:

105.99 g/mol (anhydrous)

Common Form:

White, odorless, hygroscopic powder or granules. Available in "light" (low density) and "dense" (high density) grades

Uses:

Soda ash is a primary source of alkalinity and sodium ions for a vast range of industries. Its largest use is in glass manufacturing.

Primary Applications:

· Glass Manufacturing: The single largest application (~50% of global use). It acts as a flux, lowering the melting point of silica (sand) in the production of container, flat, and fiberglass.

· Chemical Manufacturing: A key raw material for producing sodium bicarbonate (baking soda), sodium silicates, sodium phosphates, and chromium compounds.

· Detergents & Cleaners: Used as a builder and pH adjuster in powdered and liquid detergents, helping to soften water and enhance cleaning power.

· Water Treatment: Raises the pH of acidic water, neutralizes acidity, and aids in the precipitation of dissolved minerals.

· Metallurgy & Mining: Used in processing ores (e.g., bauxite to alumina) and as a flux in smelting.

· Pulp & Paper Industry: Used in the Kraft process for pulping wood and in bleaching.

What does Soda Ash  do in a formulation?

• Alkali & pH Buffer: Provides a strong alkaline pH (approx. 11-12 in 1% solution) to neutralize acids and maintain alkalinity.
• Water Softening Agent (Builder): Precipitates calcium and magnesium ions as carbonates, preventing them from interfering with surfactants.
• Flux: In glass and metallurgy, it lowers the melting point of mixtures, reducing energy consumption.
• Source of Sodium Ions: Provides Na? for chemical reactions to form other sodium compounds.
• Electrolyte: Used in some electroplating and electrolysis processes.

Safety Profile:

· Hazard Classification: Danger. Causes serious eye damage, skin irritation, and may cause respiratory irritation. Not classified as flammable or combustible.

· Skin/Eye Contact: Dust is irritating. Can cause serious eye damage and skin burns, especially in the presence of moisture (where it can form a caustic solution). Flush eyes and skin with plenty of water.

· Inhalation: Dust can irritate the respiratory tract, causing coughing and sore throat. Use local exhaust ventilation.

· Ingestion: Harmful. Can cause corrosion of the digestive tract, with symptoms of nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

· Required PPE: Safety goggles, dust mask (NIOSH N95), chemical-resistant gloves, and protective clothing.

· Handling Note: Always add soda ash slowly to water, not water to the solid, to control heat and splashing from the exothermic reaction.

Technical profile: