Common Chemical Reagents

Chlorine Dioxide is used in the winery as an alternative to chlorinated cleaners because of the magnitude of the effect that chlorine has on wine quality through the formation of TCA. Although chlorine is in the name chlorine dioxide, chlorine is not involved in any of chlorine dioxides reaction pathways.

Caustic soda, also known as sodium hydroxide (NaOH), caustic, and lye, is a strong metallic base. It is used in a wide variety of industries and by consumers for cleaning. Caustic soda is highly corrosive and reactive.

Caustic potash is another name for potassium hydroxide (KOH).  It is the largest volume potassium chemical used for commercial, non-fertilizer purposes. (In 2005, an estimated 700,000 to 800,000 tons were produced). It is produced by the electrolysis of potassium chloride, using membrane or mercury cell technology.