alkalized

Alkalized refers to a substance or solution that has been made alkaline, i.e., it has a higher pH than neutral. The process, alkalization, increases the concentration of basic species in a material. In practice, this is usually achieved by adding alkaline substances such as sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, sodium carbonate, or lime, which neutralize acids and raise pH. Alkalization can also result from removal of acidic components or carbon dioxide in some systems, but in industry it is typically accomplished by adding bases.

Applications include water treatment and industrial effluent management, where adjusting pH helps reduce corrosion, improve treatment efficiency, and stabilize metals; in agriculture, liming soils raises pH to reduce toxicity from metals and improve nutrient availability; in food processing, alkalization is used to modify flavor, color, and texture, most notably in Dutch-processed cocoa, which is treated with an alkaline solution; some beverages and nutritional products are marketed as alkalized to suggest reduced acidity.

Physiological and clinical contexts use alkalized urine or other fluids under controlled conditions for certain diagnostics and treatments, though pH adjustments are carefully regulated; improper alkalization can cause irritation or mineral imbalance. Safety concerns include handling strong bases and ensuring proper discharge of alkaline effluents to avoid environmental harm.

See also alkaline, alkalinity, pH.