What is Sodium Carbonate CAS 497-19-8?

Sodium carbonate, commonly called soda ash, is an anhydrous sodium salt of carbonic acid with the formula Na2CO3. It is supplied as a white powder or granular solid and used as an alkaline process chemical, glassmaking flux, water softener and cleaning ingredient.

What is the difference between heavy and light soda ash?

Heavy soda ash has higher bulk density and larger particle size, which reduces dusting and improves handling in glass furnaces. Light soda ash has lower bulk density and dissolves more readily, making it common in detergents and chemical processes where a lighter powder is preferred.

Why is heavy soda ash preferred for glass manufacturing?

Heavy soda ash supplies sodium oxide to the glass batch and lowers the melting temperature of silica. Its higher density and coarser particles mix more uniformly with silica sand, reduce dusting and help improve furnace efficiency and glass quality.

What are the main applications of Sodium Carbonate CAS 497-19-8?

Typical uses include flat and container glass, detergents and cleaners, water softening, pH adjustment, chemical manufacturing, pulp and paper, textiles and metallurgy. Food-grade applications require a grade that meets the applicable food or pharmacopeia requirements.

Which specifications should I check before ordering soda ash?

Confirm total alkali content as Na2CO3, bulk density, particle size or sieve residue, chloride, iron, sulfate and water-insoluble matter. Also state whether heavy or light grade is required for the intended process.

Sodium Carbonate CAS 497-19-8

Sodium Carbonate (CAS 497-19-8) is an essential inorganic compound serving as a primary alkaline source in industrial glass manufacturing and detergent formulation processes. Tetrasodium Pyrophosphate is a related phosphate builder where sequestration is also required. Chemically recognized as Disodium carbonate or Calcined soda, this white granular substance functions to regulate pH levels and flux silica melts. As a versatile Carbonic acid disodium salt, it is produced in dense and light grades to ensure optimal solubility and reactivity within chemical synthesis operations. We ensure bulk supply capabilities for this material, providing access to competitive factory pricing and customized specifications to meet specific density requirements. Full technical documentation, including MSDS, TDS, COA, is available to support compliance and safety protocols.

CAS: 497-19-8
Synonyms: Disodium carbonate, Calcined soda, Carbonic acid disodium salt, Soda ash
Einecs: 207-838-8
Molecular Formula: Na2CO3
Grade: Industrial Grade (Heavy & Light)
Package: 25kg/50kg PP bags with PE liner, 1000kg/1200kg Jumbo bags.

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Product Description

Sodium Carbonate is a white, odorless powder or granular crystal with a strong alkaline taste. In the global market, it is categorized into two main types based on bulk density:

Heavy Soda Ash (Granular): Specifically designed for the glass industry. Its higher density and larger particle size minimize dust during transport and ensure better mixing with silica sand in furnaces.
Light Soda Ash (Powder): Primarily used in the detergent, chemical, and food industries where rapid solubility is required.

Our Soda Ash meets or exceeds the GB/T 210.1-2004 (Chinese National Standard), ensuring a total alkali content of ≥99.2%. It serves as a vital pH regulator, fluxing agent, and cleaning component across diverse industrial sectors.

1 Physicochemical Properties

2 Applications

3 Storage Conditions

4 Safety Precautions

Physicochemical Properties

Property	Heavy Soda Ash (Typical)	Light Soda Ash (Typical)
Total Alkali Content	≥ 99.2%	≥ 99.2%
Chloride (as NaCl)	≤ 0.70%	≤ 0.70%
Iron (Fe)	≤ 0.0035%	≤ 0.0035%
Sulfate (as SO4)	≤ 0.03%	≤ 0.03%
Matter Insoluble in Water	≤ 0.03%	≤ 0.03%
Bulk Density (g/cm³)	0.90 – 1.20	0.50 – 0.80
Particle Size (>180μm)	≥ 70%	–
Appearance	White Granular	White Powder

Applications

Glass Manufacturing: The largest consumer of Heavy Soda Ash. It acts as a flux to lower the melting point of silica, used in flat glass, container glass, and fiberglass.
Detergents & Soaps: Used as a builder to emulsify oil stains and soften water by precipitating magnesium and calcium ions.
Chemical Synthesis: A key raw material for producing Sodium Silicates, Sodium Bicarbonate, Sodium Dichromate, and Sodium Tripolyphosphate.
Metallurgy: Used as a desulfurizer and dephosphorizer in steel and iron production, and as a flux in non-ferrous metal smelting.
Water Treatment: Acts as a cost-effective pH adjuster and water softener for industrial boilers and municipal wastewater.
Pulp & Paper: Used in the cooking process of wood pulp and as a bleaching agent regulator.

For related alkaline carbonate and silicate raw materials, see Sodium Bicarbonate and Sodium Silicate.

Storage Conditions

Dryness is Critical: Sodium Carbonate is hygroscopic. It must be stored in a dry, well-ventilated warehouse to prevent caking and absorption of atmospheric moisture/CO2.
Packaging Integrity: Ensure bags remain sealed. Do not store alongside acids, as a neutralizing reaction will occur, releasing carbon dioxide gas.
Stacking: Keep bags on pallets to avoid direct contact with damp floors.

Safety Precautions

Eye Protection: Sodium Carbonate is a strong alkaline irritant. Wear safety goggles. In case of contact, flush with water for at least 15 minutes.
Respiratory Protection: During handling, especially with Light Soda Ash, wear a dust mask (N95/P2) to avoid irritation of the respiratory tract.
Skin Care: Prolonged contact may cause dryness or irritation. Wear protective gloves and wash thoroughly after handling.
Environmental: Avoid large-scale discharge into water sources as it will significantly raise the pH level, potentially harming aquatic life.

FAQ - Technical & Supply Chain

Q:
What is Sodium Carbonate CAS 497-19-8?

A: Sodium carbonate, commonly called soda ash, is an anhydrous sodium salt of carbonic acid with the formula Na2CO3. It is supplied as a white powder or granular solid and used as an alkaline process chemical, glassmaking flux, water softener and cleaning ingredient.
Q:
What is the difference between heavy and light soda ash?

A: Heavy soda ash has higher bulk density and larger particle size, which reduces dusting and improves handling in glass furnaces. Light soda ash has lower bulk density and dissolves more readily, making it common in detergents and chemical processes where a lighter powder is preferred.
Q:
Why is heavy soda ash preferred for glass manufacturing?

A: Heavy soda ash supplies sodium oxide to the glass batch and lowers the melting temperature of silica. Its higher density and coarser particles mix more uniformly with silica sand, reduce dusting and help improve furnace efficiency and glass quality.
Q:
What are the main applications of Sodium Carbonate CAS 497-19-8?

A: Typical uses include flat and container glass, detergents and cleaners, water softening, pH adjustment, chemical manufacturing, pulp and paper, textiles and metallurgy. Food-grade applications require a grade that meets the applicable food or pharmacopeia requirements.
Q:
Which specifications should I check before ordering soda ash?

A: Confirm total alkali content as Na2CO3, bulk density, particle size or sieve residue, chloride, iron, sulfate and water-insoluble matter. Also state whether heavy or light grade is required for the intended process.

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