Description
Sodium carbonate, also known as soda ash or washing soda, is a white, odorless, water-soluble chemical compound (Na₂CO₃) used in manufacturing glass, detergents, soaps, and various food products, where it acts as an acidity regulator and anti-caking agent. It is also a popular DIY ingredient for cleaning and water softening
Uses
Manufacturing:
A major component in glass production and a key ingredient in soaps and detergents.
Cleaning:
Effectively softens water, removes grease, and helps clean coffee machines and remove stains.
Food Industry:
Used as an acidity regulator, an anti-caking agent, and to provide texture to foods like ramen noodles.
Other Uses:
Applied as a wetting agent in the brick industry, a de-scaling agent, a pH balancer in aquariums, and in the cleaning of silver.
Safety & Handling
Mild Alkali:
Sodium carbonate is a mild alkali and can cause skin and eye irritation upon contact.
Harmful if Swallowed:
Ingesting sodium carbonate can be harmful, potentially causing symptoms such as severe pain, vomiting, and breathing problems.
Handle with Care:
When using it as a cleaning ingredient, wear gloves and avoid getting it in your eyes.
Origin
Sodium carbonate can be found naturally in the ashes of plants.
It can also be produced synthetically from salt (sodium chloride) and limestone
