Sodium hydroxide is a chemical compound used in many sectors, especially in the chemical sector. Sodium hydroxide is also known as caustic and is a white, moisture-absorbing compound. It dissolves easily in water to form a slippery, soft soap solution. Sodium hydroxide without any odor is present in liquid or solid form. It has an itchy effect on contact with human skin.

Sodium hydroxide is not present in the natural environment, it is easily produced in the laboratory. Generally, sodium chloride is electrolyzed to give a half solution. During this time, chlorine gas is produced. When the water in the solution evaporates, the caustic remains solid.

Sodium hydroxide is also obtained from a reaction between calcium hydroxide and carbonate.

In the industry, sodium hydroxide is used in the production of many chemicals, in the production of artificial silk, in the soap, paper, paint and detergent industries and in petroleum refineries.

When sodium hydroxide reacts with water, its temperature reaches 50 in about five minutes, and 15 maintains this temperature for minutes.

Sodium hydroxide is also used in soap production. As a cleaning agent, it is widely used in the cleaning industry. When added to water and heated, it is effective in cleaning of storage areas and equipment. It can easily dissolve proteins and grease and similar oils. It is also used for cleaning sewage waste pipes and sinks. The most common use in homes is to open clogged washbasins.

The standard used by accredited laboratories for the determination of hydroxide in the context of physical and chemical analysis of detergents is:

• TS 5682 Sodium hypochlorite solution - used in industry and as bleach

This standard covers sodium hypochlorite solution used as bleach in laundry bleaching industry.