Determination of Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH) and Potassium Hydroxide (KOH)

In soap production, saponification is a process that converts oils into soap. sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and potassium hydroxide (KOH) is used.

Sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and potassium hydroxide (KOH) react in the same way as triglycerides by dissolving triglycerides, allowing methanol to bind with fatty acids. Both of these chemical compounds have been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as thickeners and stabilizers in processed foods. Sodium hydroxide and potassium hydroxide are used in many manufacturing applications. Despite their similarities, they have some special uses. For example, potassium hydroxide is used as an electrolyte in alkaline batteries. Sodium hydroxide is used in water treatment.

Sodium hydroxide and potassium hydroxide are both highly corrosive and strong bases. Both are formed by ionic bonding of an alkali metal to a hydroxide group. Of all the compounds in the hydroxide group, potassium hydroxide and sodium hydroxide are the most chemically similar. Their strong chemical similarity makes them easily interchangeable in a variety of uses. Since sodium hydroxide and potassium hydroxide are strong bases, they react by giving off heat to water, so they are both highly exothermic. They are in the form of both white powder and flakes in solid form. Once dissolved, each can be used as an aqueous solution.

Sodium hydroxide is produced using sodium chloride, otherwise known as plain table salt. A more expensive compound, potassium chloride, is used to produce potassium hydroxide.

Testing for sodium hydroxide and potassium hydroxide is generally based on the following standard developed by the American Testing and Materials Association (ASTM): ASTM E291-18 Standard test methods for chemical analysis of caustic soda and caustic potash (sodium hydroxide and potassium hydroxide). These test methods cover only the analyzes that are usually required for the following commercial products:

• caustic soda (sodium hydroxide), 50 percent and 73 percent liquors
• Caustic potash (potassium hydroxide), 45 percent liquor

Our organization also provides sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and potassium hydroxide (KOH) determination services with its trained and expert staff and advanced technological equipment, among the numerous test, measurement, analysis and evaluation studies it provides for businesses in various sectors.