Alkaline solutions are aqueous solutions of metal hydroxides. The best-known lyes are caustic soda, lye of potassium, lye of chlorine and lye of calcium. The latter are mainly used in industry. Lyes dissolve fats and are therefore used as cleaning agents. In addition, they have a caustic effect, but do not attack metals (apart from zinc and aluminium). They are used in soap production, paper production, as a cleaning agent or as a paint remover.A lye is a metal hydroxide traditionally obtained by leaching wood ashes, or a strong alkali which is highly soluble in water producing caustic basic solutions. Lye most commonly refers to sodium hydroxide NaOH, but historically has been used for potassium hydroxide KOH.Today, lye is commercially manufactured using a membrane cell chloralkali process. It is supplied in various forms such as flakes, pellets, microbeads, coarse powder or a solution. Lye has traditionally been used as a major ingredient in soap making.Lyes are of essential importance in the processing and manufacturing industries. Their wide range of applications extends across various sectors of the economy and significantly influences the quality and properties of numerous manufactured products.Lyes play a key role, particularly in the food industry. They enable the development of the characteristic texture, crust and flavor in products such as pretzels, bagels and pretzels. Applying lye solutions to the surface of the dough before baking creates the typical brown, crispy crust that characterizes these products.Another sector that makes extensive use of the benefits of lye is the chemical industry. Here they serve as the basis for a variety of chemical reactions and syntheses. For example, sodium hydroxide (caustic soda) and potassium hydroxide (lye of potash) are essential raw materials for the production of various chemicals, including organic solvents, soaps, cleaning products and many other products.In papermaking, alkalis play a crucial role in the pulp pulping process. The lye helps separate and dissolve the wood fibers, enabling an important step in papermaking. In addition, the correct adjustment of the pH value of the paper influences the manufacturing process and the quality of the end product.Lyes are also widely used in the metal processing industry. They are used to clean metal surfaces and produce metal coatings. Lye baths are used to remove contaminants and prepare surfaces for subsequent processing. In addition, alkalis play an important role in the processing of metals, such as in the production of aluminum.In summary, it should be emphasized that alkalis are of essential importance for the processing and manufacturing industry. Their diverse applications in the above-mentioned industries make a significant contribution to the production of high-quality products and are essential for numerous production processes.The MCAS-Systems GmbH is your trusted partner for high quality chemicals and chemical products. Our years of expertise and focus on quality make us the ideal choice as your chemical source.Our wide range of products covers a diverse range of industrial needs, from standard chemicals to tailor-made solutions. Through strict quality controls, we guarantee reliable results in your processes.Our dedicated team of experts works closely with you to develop customized solutions. Trust in us as a partner who combines quality, expertise and commitment. We look forward to optimizing your industrial processes and increasing your success.