Sodium Chloride (NaCl)

Sodium chloride (NaCl) is an inorganic compound and essential mineral most commonly recognized as table salt. It consists of sodium and chloride ions, forming a crystalline solid that is highly soluble in water. Beyond its role in food seasoning and preservation, sodium chloride has widespread applications in industrial, pharmaceutical, and chemical processes.

In industrial uses, sodium chloride is a key raw material in the production of chlorine, caustic soda, and soda ash through the chlor-alkali process. It is also widely used for water softening, de-icing roads, and as a preservative in food processing. In healthcare, sodium chloride solutions are critical for medical treatments, IV fluids, and laboratory applications.

Its low cost, high availability, and versatility make sodium chloride one of the most widely used chemicals worldwide, serving industries ranging from food and agriculture to water treatment, pharmaceuticals, and chemical manufacturing.

Synonyms: NaCl, Common salt, Halite, Rock salt, Table salt

Characteristics:

• IUPAC Name: Sodium chloride
• CAS Number: 7647-14-5
• Appearance: White crystalline solid
• Solubility: Freely soluble in water
• Function: Flavoring, preservative, raw material, de-icer, electrolyte

Recommended Use / Industries:

• Food seasoning and preservation
• Pharmaceuticals and medical solutions (IV fluids, saline)
• Water treatment and softening
• Chemical manufacturing (chlor-alkali process)
• De-icing and snow control
• Animal nutrition and agriculture