Caustic Soda By Vision Minerals & Energy

Caustic SodaCaustic Soda: CAUSTIC SODA is used in water-base muds as a source of hydroxyl ions to control pH. CAUSTIC SODA, caustic, alkali and lye are all common names for sodium hydroxide (NaOH). It is a strong base which is extremely soluble in water and dissociates into sodium (Na) and hydroxyl (OH) ions in solutionTypical Physical PropertiesPhysical appearance- White beads, pellets, flakes or crystalsSpecific gravity-  2.13pH (1% solution)-  13.0Solubility @ 86OF (30OC)- 119 g/100 ml waterApplicationsCAUSTIC SODA is used to maintain or increase pH. Increasing pH with CAUSTIC SODA will precipitate magnesium (Mg2+) and suppress calcium (Ca2+) in high hardness waters such as seawater, reduce corrosion, and neutralize acid gases such as carbon dioxide (CO2) and hydrogen sulfide (H2S). Typical concentrations range from 0.25 to 4 lb/bbl (0.7 to 11.4 kg/m3) with treatments depending on water chemistry and type of drilling fluid. In seawater and waters containing buffering salts, a higher concentration of CAUSTIC SODA will be required. Gulf of Mexico seawater requires 1.5 to 2 lb/bbl (4.3 to 5.7 kg/m3) to precipitate all magnesium then convert the calcium to lime. See figures below showing pH and calcium solubility vs. CAUSTIC SODA concentration. When treating muds with SPERSENEE or TANNATHIN,T which have low pH (+4), typical usage is 1 sack of CAUSTIC SODA for every 4 sacks of SPERSENE or TANNATHIN. When using CAUSTIC SODA to reduce hardness: CAUSTIC SODA (lb/bbl) = [Mg (mg/l) x 0.00115 x Fw] + [Ca (mg/l) x 0.0007 x Fw] Where: Fw = Water fraction (% water/100) AdvantagesWidely available and economic source of hydroxyl ions to control pHConcentrated chemical and very effective at small treatment levelsIncreases pH which reduces corrosion of steel exposed to drilling fluidsCan be used in most drilling fluids LimitationsIn high hardness brines such as CaCl2, Williston, Michigan and Zechstein brines, CAUSTIC SODA cannot be used to effectively raise the pH due to the high level of cations which combine with hydroxyl ions to precipitate hydroxides such as Ca(OH)2 and Mg(OH)2.Toxicity and HandlingBioassay information is available upon request. Handle as an industrial chemical, wearing protective equipment and observing the precautions as described on the Transportation and Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS). Also observe the health hazard information and emergency and first aid procedures described on the MSDS. WARNING! Avoid exposure and handle only when fully protected. CAUSTIC SODA is an extremely alkaline material and can cause severe burns to eyes, skin and  respiratory tract, and may react violently with water or acids. Considerable heat energy is generated when CAUSTIC SODA is mixed with water and care should be taken when mixing. CAUSTIC SODA should be added slowly to the mud system through a properly designed chemical barrel. Do not mix CAUSTIC SODA with other chemicals or through the mud hopper. When using the chemical barrel, fill to the desired level with water; then add dry CAUSTIC SODAPackaging and StorageCAUSTIC SODA is usually packaged in 50-lb (22.7-kg), multi-wall, paper sacks with plastic liners. Other packaging includes fiberboard or steel drums of various sizes, as well as other sack sizes. Store in a dry area away from water and acids. Keep all containers sealed. Once a container is opened it should be used immediately since  CAUSTIC SODA is hygroscopic and absorbs water from the air making it more difficult to handle. CAUSTIC SODA is corrosive to certain materials. Spills should be cleaned  up using protective equipment as described on the MSDS and with the utmost care.