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Safety Reference · pH Up

Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash)

General handling and safety reference information.

General reference only — not the official SDS. This page is a general educational summary, not the legally required Safety Data Sheet for a specific manufacturer's product. Request and follow the actual SDS from your supplier before handling, storing, or disposing of this material.

Identification

Common Names
Sodium Carbonate, Soda Ash, Washing Soda
Chemical Family
Inorganic alkaline salt
CAS No.
497-19-8
Appearance
White crystalline powder or granules
Used In
Full Kit (pH Up)

Hazard Overview

Sodium carbonate is alkaline (basic) and is a stronger irritant than the mild acids in this lineup — concentrated dust or solution can cause eye and skin irritation, and higher concentrations or prolonged contact can cause burns. Dust is irritating to the nose, throat, and lungs. It is not flammable, but it will react with acids, releasing carbon dioxide, and should not be mixed directly with acidic products (such as citric acid) without a specific reason and appropriate ventilation.

First Aid Measures

  • Eye contact: Flush immediately with clean water for at least 15 minutes, lifting eyelids. Seek medical attention promptly.
  • Skin contact: Remove contaminated clothing and wash skin thoroughly with water. Seek medical attention if irritation or burns develop.
  • Inhalation: Move to fresh air. Seek medical attention if breathing difficulty or irritation persists.
  • Ingestion: Do not induce vomiting. Rinse mouth with water and seek medical attention.

Handling & Storage

Store in a cool, dry place in a tightly closed container, away from acids and reactive metals such as aluminum. Avoid generating dust. Keep away from food and drinking water.

Personal Protective Equipment

  • Safety glasses or goggles when weighing, dosing, or mixing
  • Chemical-resistant gloves
  • Dust mask if handling dry powder in a poorly ventilated space

Spill & Disposal

Sweep or scoop up dry material and place in a suitable container for disposal. Small spilled solutions can be diluted with water and neutralized before disposal per local regulations. Do not discharge concentrated solution directly to storm drains or waterways, and do not mix waste sodium carbonate directly with acidic waste without controlling the resulting gas release.