Soda ash, the trade name for sodium carbonate (Na2CO3), is a white, anhydrous, powdered or granular material. It is an essential raw material used in the manufacturing of glass, detergents chemicals and other industrial products.
As such, soda ash is one of the most widely used and important commodities in the United States, contributing substantially to the gross domestic product. For this reason, the Federal Reserve Board incorporates monthly soda ash production data into monthly economic indicators used to monitor the condition of the U.S. economy.
Uses:
In the manufacture of glass, where it reduces the melting temperature of the sand used in glass formation and helps in the 'workability' or shaping of glass articles such as tableware and float glass.
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In the making of soaps and detergents, where it is employed as a builder, or filler, to give a smoother surface.
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In the production of chemicals such as sodium silicate, sodium bicarbonate and pecarbonate, sodium chromate and dichromate, etc.
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In pulp and paper manufacture, water treatment, effluent treatment, metallurgy and drugs.
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