In a paper mill, soda ash (Na2CO3) can be added directly in the causticizing process to form, on reaction with calcium hydroxide, caustic soda (NaOH) for pulping. The overall reaction is Na2CO3 + Ca(OH)2 → 2NaOH + CaCO3. Soda ash also may have potential in the on-site production of precipitated calcium carbonate, which is used as a paper filler. The chloride in soda ash (which causes corrosion of equipment) is 40 times less than in regular-grade caustic soda (NaOH), which can also be used; hence the quality of soda ash is better for pulp mills. However, a major impediment to switching to soda ash is the need for excess causticization capacity, generally not available at older mills.
Severe competition exists between soda ash and caustic soda produced by electrolysis. Average caustic soda prices are about $265 per metric ton FOB (free on board, i.e., without charges for delivery to or loading on carrier), while soda ash prices are about $130/metric ton FOB.
To what value would caustic soda prices have to drop in order to meet the price of $130/metric ton based on an equivalent amount of NaOH?
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