what is lye
Lye is a caustic, alkaline chemical that is useful for many purposes but also is hazardous. It can dissolve sticky substances such as fat and has a high degree of reactivity with other materials. Modern lye typically is the chemical sodium hydroxide, but potassium hydroxide was once the chemical compound that was commonly used. Whether in a flake, granular or liquid form, it is very dangerous and can cause damage to surfaces and people.
Lye is a chemical compound known as sodium hydroxide. Lye is used in many different ways, such as: food preparation, biodiesel production, water treatment, and of course in making soaps and detergents. Lye is highly corrosive and known as a âcaustic sodaâ.