Soda ash has the chemical name sodium carbonate. It is also known as washing soda. Sodium carbonate is a white crystalline powder and has chemical formula is Na₂CO₃. Soda ash exists in mineral form as it hydrates salts and has several deposits all over the globe. Soda ash is hygroscopic solid but remains stable at room temperature. It is highly water-soluble but weakly acidic. When it is heated at a very high temperature or mixed with acids, it decomposes to emit toxic fumes of disodium oxide.

Sodium carbonate can be prepared in the laboratory by the Solvay process sodium chloride is treated with ammonia to obtain sodium bicarbonate. On heating, sodium bicarbonate converts into soda ash.

Soda ash has application in several industries like it is used for cleaning or washing clothes and known as washing soda. Silica is an essential component in glassmaking soda ash acts as a flux for silica by lowering the melting point of the mixture. Hard water consists of compounds like calcium and magnesium; therefore, permanent or temporary hardening of water uses soda ash for removing its hardness. Sodium carbonate is used as a food additive to regulate acidity. It is an essential component of the kansui to give ramen noodles its famous unique taste. It is a strong base but inexpensive as compared to sodium hydroxide and safe to use. Soda ash is used in brick production as a wetting agent to decrease the use of water. Soda ash is one of the essential components of a fire extinguisher.

Soda ash in solution form is highly alkaline and corrosive. On contact with eyes and skin, it can cause severe irritation. On inhalation of fumes can irritate the respiratory tract and lead to severe cough and shortness of breath.

CAS NO :- 497-19-8

USES AND APPLICATIONS FOR SODIUM CARBONATE

INDUSTRIES

It is used in numerous industrial applications like: –

• Water softener
• Food processing
• pH modifier
• Glass manufacturing
• Papermaking
• Soap and detergent making

… and many more.