Soda Ash Light (99%) - Turkey

Brief Overview

There are three main grades of soda ash: dense soda ash, light soda ash, and washing soda. Light soda ash, also referred to as anhydrous sodium carbonate (Na2CO3), is a white, odorless granular powder that easily dissolves in water, forming a highly alkaline solution. It exhibits hygroscopic properties, absorbing moisture from the atmosphere and causing clumping. While its primary form is the monohydrate, it can also exist as decahydrate and heptahydrate.
Spontaneous formation of soda ash light occurs from sodium deposits, which undergo extensive 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 accumulated in basins. Exposure to carbon dioxide is the catalyst for soda ash production.

Manufacturing Process

Solvay Technique

In 1861, Belgian chemist Ernest Solvay introduced the Solvay technique, a highly efficient means of converting sodium chloride into soda ash light. This method entails the interaction of ammonia with sodium chloride, utilizing calcium carbonate as a catalyst. The resulting product is sodium bicarbonate, which undergoes a heating process to be transformed into soda ash light.

Detergent Industry

Within the detergent industry, soda ash light serves as a water softener in washing machines. It competes with magnesium and calcium ions in hard water, preventing their interaction with the detergent. This versatile compound also aids in the elimination of grease and wine stains while functioning as a filter and pH regulator, crucial for precise pH control in manufacturing processes.

Textile Industry

In the textile sector, soda ash light is integral to dyeing processes, ensuring the effective adhesion of dyes to cellulosic fibers. Whether added before, after, or during dyeing, it contributes to bleaching, de-acidifying spun rayon, Tencel, or hemp. Furthermore, it plays a key role in adjusting pH levels, maintaining the optimal conditions required for the dyeing process.

Paper Industry

Soda ash light serves as a vital pH adjuster in the pulping process within the paper industry. Its role extends to maintaining precise and constant pH levels, enhancing overall efficiency. Additionally, it assists in neutralizing waste streams, facilitating waste paper disposal, softening wood chips, and controlling pH conditions during pulp cooking.

Intermediate Chemical

Playing a critical role as a reactant, soda ash light is utilized in the production of various sodium-containing chemicals such as sodium hydroxide, sodium bicarbonate, and sodium silicate. Beyond chemical manufacturing, it offers an alternative method for bone cleansing, as it is added to boiling water to efficiently remove flesh from skulls and bones, providing a viable alternative to insect-based approaches.