What Are Caustic Soda Flakes?
Chemical Identity and Composition
Caustic soda flakes, also known as sodium hydroxide flakes (NaOH), are solid white flakes that are highly caustic and water-soluble. They are derived from caustic soda lye, dried and flaked for ease of transportation and controlled industrial use. When dissolved in water, they produce a strong exothermic reaction, forming a highly alkaline solution.
Caustic soda flakes are an essential base chemical in numerous industries due to their corrosive strength, alkalinity, and reactivity with fats, oils, acids, and many metals. Their ability to dissolve organic matter makes them a staple in cleaning, chemical processing, and heavy manufacturing.
Production Methods and Grades Available
Sodium hydroxide flakes are typically manufactured through electrolysis of sodium chloride (salt). The final product is flaked and tested to ensure it meets specific industrial purity standards. New Indureg Chemicals offers:
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Industrial grade NaOH (96% – 99% purity)
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High-purity caustic flakes for sensitive applications
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Consistent particle sizing for safe handling and fast solubility
Our caustic soda flakes are free from mercury and heavy metal contamination, making them safe and compliant for use across a broad range of industries.
New Indureg Chemicals – Leading NaOH Supplier in Belgium
About the Company
New Indureg Chemicals is a premier chemical supplier based in Belgium, specializing in the import and distribution of high-quality industrial-grade chemicals, including caustic soda flakes. We cater to a wide range of sectors including water treatment, agriculture, textiles, paper mills, and manufacturing.
With strategic logistics partners and warehousing across Belgium, New Indureg Chemicals ensures fast, reliable bulk deliveries and personalized service, no matter the industry.
Quality Commitment and EU Standards Compliance
All caustic soda flakes supplied by New Indureg meet REACH compliance, and are regularly tested for:
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Purity and moisture content
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Heavy metal residues
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Uniformity and solubility rate
Our packaging solutions are UN-approved and labeled in accordance with EU chemical regulations, ensuring safe transit and storage for every client.
Key Industrial Applications of Caustic Soda Flakes
Water Treatment and pH Control
In municipal and industrial water treatment plants, sodium hydroxide flakes are vital for pH regulation, neutralization of acids, and heavy metal precipitation. They’re used to:
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Increase pH in acidic wastewater
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Aid in flocculation and sedimentation
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Remove phosphates, heavy metals, and grease
Caustic soda is also commonly used to regenerate ion exchange resins in water softening systems.
Soap, Detergent, and Cleaning Agent Production
One of the oldest and most widespread uses of caustic soda flakes is in saponification, the chemical reaction that turns fats and oils into soap. It’s used by:
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Soap manufacturers for solid bar soaps
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Detergent companies to break down oils and create high-alkaline cleaners
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Industrial cleaning brands as a powerful degreaser
Its cleaning power, when handled with care, is unmatched in removing organic buildup, making it essential for professional sanitation and janitorial supply producers.
Use in Pulp, Paper, and Textile Industries
Role in Bleaching and Fabric Processing
In the textile industry, caustic soda flakes are essential for the mercerization process, where cotton fibers are treated to enhance dye uptake, strength, and texture. It’s also used for:
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Scouring natural fibers
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Bleaching raw textiles
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Removing impurities from yarn and woven materials
Sodium hydroxide breaks down oils, waxes, and other residues, making fibers more absorbent and easier to dye uniformly.
Paper Mill Caustic Recovery Systems
Paper manufacturers use caustic soda in pulping processes, helping to dissolve lignin and separate cellulose fibers. It’s also employed in:
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Kraft pulping
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Bleach boosting
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Effluent pH regulation
Recycled pulp often goes through caustic extraction stages to remove ink and contaminants, restoring brightness and softness to reused paper.
Storage, Handling, and Safety Guidelines
Personal Protective Equipment and Spill Control
Due to its caustic nature, handling sodium hydroxide flakes requires strict adherence to safety protocols. Direct contact can cause severe skin burns, eye damage, and respiratory irritation.
Recommended safety measures include:
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Chemical-resistant gloves and goggles
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Face shields and protective aprons
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Proper ventilation or respirators in powder-handling zones
In case of a spill, the area should be neutralized with diluted acetic acid or similar agents and thoroughly washed with water.
Safe Packaging and Storage Conditions
At New Indureg Chemicals, caustic soda flakes are packed in:
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25 kg HDPE or kraft paper bags
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1-ton jumbo sacks with moisture-resistant liners
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Palletized for stability and safe stacking
Storage guidelines include:
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Keep in dry, cool, and ventilated areas
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Avoid contact with acids, organic materials, and flammable substances
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Use plastic or stainless-steel containers for dissolution, as NaOH is highly corrosive to aluminum and zinc
With proper handling, caustic soda flakes have a shelf life of 2 years.
