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 ORS - Chemical Safety

Inorganic Base Neutralization Procedures

These procedures are suitable for the neutralization of sodium and potassium hydroxide. 

Conduct all procedures in a chemical fume hood. 

Wear appropriate PPE: 

  • Eye goggles 
  • Nitrile rubber gloves 
  • Laboratory coat 
  • Face shield (optional but recommended)

1. Wearing the appropriate PPE and working in a fume hood, slowly add the base to a large volume of ice water while stirring. Use enough water to dilute the base to 5% or less. Always add base to water. 

2. Neutralize the base with 5% hydrochloric acid. 

3. Add the 5% hydrochloric acid slowly until the pH reaches 5. 

4. Wash the solution to the drain with at least 50 times its volume of water.

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Last Revision 05/16/2007
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