Premium Caustic Soda / Sodium Hydroxide Sodium hydroxide (NaOH,) also known as caustic soda or lye, is commonly used as a drain cleaner. This chemical is also is used in the creation of soap, detergent, paper, and textiles plus various other industrial and sanitation purposes. Our product is 99% pure, and is made in the USA. CAUTION: caustic soda beads must be diluted by adding them to water. If water is poured over beads it will cause boiling and spattering, and will cause severe burns to all exposed tissues including eyes, skin, mucous membranes and lungs. Wear gloves & goggles when handling. Small premium beads MaxTite Caustic Soda Beads (aka Pearls) are a useful, premium and easily dissolve compared to other forms such as caustic soda flakes. Soapmaker's Supply Perfect for making handmade or custom soaps Caustic soda causes saponification and is an essential ingredient in soap-making. When beads of sodium hydroxide get added to a liquid, it forms a lye solution. This solution, when mixed with oils or fats, will lead to a chemical reaction called saponification. This explains the detergent property of soap, giving it the ability to interact with and dissolve oils, grease, fats, dirt, and other grime that is typically not soluble in water. MaxTite Caustic Soda beads are ideal for soapmaking. These small pearls dissolve quickly and easily, unlike flakes. Cleaning and degreasing Perfect for degreasing pots and pans as well as commercial kitchen equipment such as grease hoods and fryers. Sodium hydroxide makes quick work of greases and fat, allowing you to clean it away more easily. Drain cleaning Caustic soda has long been used to clear blockages and organic debris from pipes, to great effect. To unblock your drain: Wear gloves/eye protectionAdd 3 cups caustic soda to a gallon of water and mix thoroughly in an oversized containerNote that on mixing, the solution will fizz and heat up. Make sure the container is large enough and you're on a good work surface that wouldn't be damaged by accidental splatter.Pour mixture down blocked drain and let sit 30 minutes.Flush with at least a couple gallons of clean water