Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH) in concentrated form is an extremely strong alkaline liquid. For this reason, Sodium Hydroxide must be stored and handled with great care. Sodium Hydroxide is delivered in solid form as pellets, or in liquid form. Dissolving pellets in water requires a separate mixing plant. From an HSE perspective, such mixing plants are not an optimal solution.
Sodium Hydroxide in liquid form is delivered in two concentrations: 50 % or 30 % (known as winter Sodium Hydroxide). As the 50 % concentration crystallizes at 12˚C, it can create problems if the system is not designed properly. Crystallization in tanks, pipes, pumps, and other equipment has the potential to block the entire system. Consequently, for much of the year, the liquid must be heated. Storage tanks must be well insulated to keep heat loss to a minimum. It is worth noting that a purchase of lye with a concentration of 30 %, will be avoided. However, your transport costs will increase dramatically. In the long run, opting for the lower concentration will be less environmentally friendly and more expensive.