The challenge of relying on caustic soda and traditional milks of lime
Choosing the right neutralization agent is key to effective wastewater treatment, but as many plant operators are finding out, their choice affects far more than just the process.
For many years, caustic soda and traditional milks of lime have been widely and effectively used to neutralize industrial wastewater and precipitate unwanted substances such as heavy metals. But these solutions come with serious drawbacks that plant operators can no longer ignore if they want to run safe, sustainable, and cost-efficient operations.
- Safety risks: Both caustic soda and lime are classified as dangerous goods. Handling them requires strict safety measures, and accidents can lead to severe chemical burns or environmental contamination.
- Cost volatility: Caustic soda prices have fluctuated by up to 40% in the past five years, making budgeting unpredictable.
- Operational inefficiencies: Traditional milks of lime often require constant agitation to prevent settling. The resulting sediment can accumulate and is responsible for clogging pipes and dosing systems, leading to high maintenance costs and increased energy consumption.
Not just another milk of lime: a safer, smarter alternative
Omya Neutramaxx was developed to fill the gap in the market for a risk-free alternative to caustic soda and traditional milks of lime. It is a concentrated, highly reactive milk of lime—but with a difference. Unlike conventional products, Omya Neutramaxx is non-corrosive, making it safe to store, handle, and dose. Customers are using it as a direct replacement for 50% caustic soda, quicklime, or hydrated lime. Operationally, it delivers more efficient pH regulation and control, while offering the added advantages of lower costs and improved safety.
Predictable pricing and operational savings
One of the biggest frustrations for plant operators is the volatility of caustic soda pricing, which can swing dramatically with global market conditions. Omya Neutramaxx eliminates this uncertainty by offering stable pricing and global availability. The financial benefits go beyond procurement: customers report up to 15% reduction in chemical costs compared to caustic soda, along with 20–30% lower sludge volumes. This not only reduces disposal costs but also improves process efficiency. Fewer unplanned shutdowns and less maintenance further contribute to operational savings.
See it to believe: calculate your benefits
Switching to Omya Neutramaxx isn’t just about safety and sustainability—it’s about measurable results. To make the decision easier, Omya has developed a simple online calculator that shows exactly what you could save. By entering a few basic figures, plant operators can instantly see potential cost reductions, CO₂ savings, and efficiency gains from moving away from caustic soda and traditional milks of lime. It’s the easiest first step toward a safer, smarter, and more sustainable wastewater treatment process.
Try the calculator now and see the difference for yourself.