Lye
Lye
Lye (/laɪ/), also known as caustic soda or sodium hydroxide, is a highly alkaline substance used in various industries, including soap making, food preparation, and water treatment.
Etymology
The term "lye" originates from the Old English léag, which is derived from the Proto-Germanic *laugo. This term was used to refer to any strong alkali, particularly those derived from leaching or lixiviating wood ashes.
Usage
Lye is commonly used in the production of soap, where it reacts with fats and oils in a process known as saponification. In food preparation, lye is used in the making of certain types of food, such as pretzels and lutefisk. It is also used in water treatment processes to adjust the pH of the water and remove heavy metals.
Safety
Due to its highly caustic nature, lye can cause severe burns and eye damage. It is important to handle lye with care, using appropriate personal protective equipment and following safety guidelines.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Lye
- Wikipedia's article - Lye
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