caustic
A term used with reference to the hydroxides of
alkali and alkaline earth metals, such as sodium,
potassium, calcium, barium, etc., so called
because they possess corrosive properties. In very
dilute solutions, caustics are used to neutralize
acidity in paper, to control pH in the bleaching
of paper furnishes, etc., and in very strong
solutions in leather manufacture to lime and
unhair hides and skins.
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