NatriumcarbonatDecahydrat

Natriumcarbonat is the chemical name for sodium carbonate, a mineral salt with the chemical formula Na₂CO₃. It is also commonly known as washing soda, soda ash, or soda crystals. Natriumcarbonat occurs naturally in the mineral trona, which is a mixture of sodium carbonate and sodium bicarbonate. It can also be produced synthetically through the Solvay process. Pure natriumcarbonat is a white, odorless powder that is readily soluble in water, forming a moderately alkaline solution.

Historically, natriumcarbonat was extracted from ashes of plants, hence its common name "soda ash." Its alkaline properties make it a valuable cleaning agent, capable of softening water and emulsifying grease. This has led to its widespread use in laundry detergents, dishwashing soaps, and general household cleaners. Beyond its cleaning applications, natriumcarbonat plays a crucial role in various industrial processes. It is a key ingredient in the production of glass, where it lowers the melting point of silica. It is also used in the manufacturing of other sodium compounds, such as sodium bicarbonate and sodium hydroxide. Furthermore, natriumcarbonat finds applications in water treatment for pH adjustment and in the paper industry. Its versatility and effectiveness have established natriumcarbonat as an important and widely utilized chemical compound.