Sodium Bicarbonate (NaHCO₃)
Baking Soda, Sodium Hydrogen Carbonate
What is Sodium Bicarbonate (Sodium Hydrogen Carbonate)?
Sodium bicarbonate is a compound with the chemical formula NaHCO₃, a white crystalline structure, and a slightly alkaline nature. It is also known as baking soda or sodium hydrogen carbonate among the public. It is widely used in the food, detergent, pharmaceutical, chemical, and textile industries.
Sodium Bicarbonate Properties
Property | Value / Description |
Physical Appearance | White crystalline powder |
Chemical Formula | NaHCO₃ |
Molecular Weight | 84.01 g/mol |
pH (1% Solution) | 8.2 (slightly alkaline) |
Packaging Type | 25 kg bag or 1000 kg big-bag |
Other Names | Baking Soda, Sodium Hydrogen Carbonate, Sodium Hydrogen Carbonate |
In which Industries is Sodium Bicarbonate Used?
- Food Industry: Leavening agent, acid regulator, and additive (E500)
- Pharmaceutical and Health: In antacid tablets, toothpaste, and personal care products
- Detergent and Cleaning: pH regulator, odor remover in powder detergents
- Chemical and Industrial: In fire extinguishers, water treatment, textile and leather processing
- Animal Husbandry: As a feed additive to regulate acid-base balance
- Home Use: Natural cleaning product, odor remover, and stain remover
How is Sodium Bicarbonate Produced?
Sodium bicarbonate is generally produced by the Solvay Process. In this method, a sodium carbonate solution is saturated with carbon dioxide gas, and sodium bicarbonate crystals are obtained as a precipitate. The crystals are filtered, washed, and dried to make them ready for use.
In some regions, production can also be carried out by extracting and purifying naturally occurring nahcolite (NaHCO₃ mineral). However, the most common and economical method in the industry is the Solvay Process.