*Liquid Caustic Soda* $NaOH$
Also called: *Caustic Soda Lye, Sodium Hydroxide Solution*
# *1. Quick Facts*
**Property** **Detail**
**Appearance** Clear to slightly cloudy liquid. Odorless
**Common Grades** **50% Industrial**, **48%**, **30%**, **20%**
**pH** ~14 - Very strong alkali
**Main Job** pH increaser + Saponification + Cleaner + Degreaser
# *2. Grades You’ll Find in Nigeria*
**Grade** **Concentration** **Best For** **Note**
**50% Industrial** 50% #1 grade. Detergent, Soap, Chemical Most common. Sold in 220L/1000L drums
**48% Industrial** 48% Textile, Water treatment Slightly less viscous
**30% / 20%** 30% - 20% Cleaning, pH control Easier to handle, less dangerous
**Food Grade 50%** 50% Food processing Must be NAFDAC approved
*Note*: 50% is "full strength". Below 18°C it can crystallize and look like jelly.