Soda Ash Light (99%) - India

Brief Overview

Soda ash is obtainable in three distinct grades, specifically dense soda ash, light soda ash, and washing soda. Also known as anhydrous sodium carbonate, soda ash light has the chemical formula Na2CO3. It appears as a white, odorless granular powder that readily dissolves in water, forming a highly alkaline aqueous solution. Notably hygroscopic, it tends to absorb moisture from the air, leading to clumping. Although it primarily exists in its monohydrate form, it can also manifest in decahydrate and heptahydrate forms.

Soda ash light spontaneously originates from sodium deposits, which undergo prolonged geological processes, including igneous rock erosion, sodium sediment transport, and chemical reactions. During weathering, sodium deposits are initially released from igneous rocks, washed away, flowed downstream, and collected in basins. Exposure to carbon dioxide triggers the production of soda ash.

Manufacturing Process

Solvay Method

The Solvay method, pioneered by Belgian chemist Ernest Solvay in 1861, represents a more streamlined approach for transforming sodium chloride into soda ash light. This innovative process involves the reaction of ammonia with sodium chloride, facilitated by the presence of calcium carbonate. The outcome of this reaction is the production of sodium bicarbonate, which is subsequently subjected to heating to yield soda ash light.

Detergent Industry

Soda ash light finds application as a water softener in washing machines within the detergent industry. By competing with magnesium and calcium ions in hard water, it prevents their combination with the detergent. Additionally, it aids in the removal of grease and wine stains and serves as a filter and pH regulator during critical pH control in manufacturing.

Textile Industry

Utilized in the textile industry, soda ash light plays a crucial role in dyeing processes, ensuring proper adhesion of dyes to cellulosic fibers. It can be added before, after, or during dyeing, contributing to bleaching and de-acidifying spun rayon, Tencel, or hemp. Moreover, it serves to elevate the pH during the dyeing process, maintaining the ideal pH value.

Paper Industry

In the paper industry, soda ash light acts as a pH adjuster during the pulping process, facilitating precise and constant pH control for enhanced efficiency. Its utility extends to neutralizing waste streams, aiding in waste paper disposal, softening wood chips, and regulating pH conditions during pulp cooking.

Intermediate Chemical

Soda ash light plays a pivotal role as a reactant in the production of various sodium-containing chemicals like sodium hydroxide, sodium bicarbonate, and sodium silicate. Additionally, it is employed in an alternative method for bone cleansing, where it is added to boiling water to effectively remove flesh from skulls and bones, presenting an alternative to insect-based methods.