Sodium Bicarbonate - What is it?

What is Sodium Bicarbonate?

Sodium Bicarbonate, also known as baking soda, is a white crystalline powder commonly used in various industries. It is a chemical compound of a sodium cation (Na+) and a bicarbonate anion (HCO3-). Sodium Bicarbonate is soluble in water and has a mild alkaline taste.

The production of Sodium Bicarbonate occurs through the Solvay process, which involves the reaction of sodium chloride, ammonia, and carbon dioxide. The process results in the production of sodium bicarbonate with other byproducts. The production process for Sodium Bicarbonate typically involves several stages, including purification, drying, and milling. The final product is a white powder, packaged and sold in various quantities.

Sodium bicarbonate (aka baking soda) has several applications across various industries. Whether a leavening agent in baked goods such as bread, cakes, and biscuits or as a pH regulator, stabilizer, and flavour enhancer in various processed foods, Bicarbonate is a common addition to the food industry. For drinks, it adjusts the pH in soft and sports drinks to help balance acidity levels. Additionally, sodium bicarbonate can act as a processing aid in food manufacturing, assisting with removing impurities from certain ingredients.

In the pharmaceutical industry, Sodium Bicarbonate neutralizes stomach acid and relieves symptoms of heartburn and indigestion as an antacid. Additionally, it is a buffer to regulate the pH of certain medications whilst also being used as an abrasive and deodorizer in cosmetics applications.

In the industrial sector, it is commonly used in fire extinguishers as a fire suppressant due to its ability to release carbon dioxide gas when heated, which helps to smother flames. Additionally, it can be a cleaning agent for various surfaces, including kitchen appliances and countertops.