Sodium Methoxide – Industrial Grade Supplier and Bulk Exporter

Sodium Methoxide is a strong alkaline catalyst widely used in biodiesel production, pharmaceutical synthesis, agrochemical manufacturing, and specialty chemical processing. Also known as sodium methylate or sodium methanolate, this compound supports efficient industrial reactions and consistent production performance. Manufacturers can select a 30% methanol solution or high-purity powder according to their technical requirements. Basekim supports industrial buyers seeking suitable chemical grades, technical documentation, competitive quotations, and international sourcing solutions.

What Is Sodium Methoxide?

Sodium Methoxide (CH3ONa) is an organic sodium compound that functions as a powerful base and chemical catalyst. It consists of sodium ions and methoxide ions and supports numerous industrial chemical reactions.

Manufacturers commonly use this alkoxide to accelerate transesterification, prepare organic intermediates, and carry out reactions that require strongly alkaline conditions.

The material appears in two principal commercial forms: a white to off-white solid and a clear, colorless to pale yellow solution in methanol.

Chemical suppliers also market this compound under several alternative names:

• Sodium Methylate

• Sodium Methanolate

• Sodium Methylate 30% Solution

• Sodium Methylate Powder

• Methanol Sodium Salt

• Sodium Methanolate Catalyst

Although these names describe the same active compound, commercial products can contain different concentrations and solvents.

Chemical Properties and Specifications

The following table summarizes the main chemical characteristics.

The compound readily reacts with moisture and atmospheric carbon dioxide. Manufacturers therefore use tightly sealed containers and suitable storage conditions to preserve its chemical activity.

Sodium Methoxide Grades and Commercial Forms

Industrial customers can select liquid or solid formulations according to their manufacturing requirements.

Each form offers different advantages in handling, storage, transportation, and chemical processing.

30% Sodium Methylate Solution in Methanol

A 30% solution is one of the most widely used commercial formulations.

Manufacturers prepare this liquid catalyst using methanol as the solvent. A typical formulation contains approximately 30% active alkoxide and 70% methanol by weight.

Its main advantages include:

• Ready-to-use liquid formulation

• Accurate dosing in compatible industrial systems

• Reduced dry powder handling

• Suitable integration with methanol-based processes

• Consistent catalytic performance

• Compatibility with selected closed processing systems

Biodiesel producers commonly choose this formulation because it supports liquid catalyst dosing during transesterification.

However, the methanol content creates significant flammability and toxicity hazards. Facilities must use suitable equipment, ventilation, vapor controls, and fire protection systems.

High-Purity Sodium Methylate Powder

Solid grades typically contain approximately 97–99% active material, depending on the manufacturer’s specifications.

Chemical producers select the powder when they require concentrated material for specific organic synthesis processes.

Its advantages include high active content, reduced solvent transportation, and flexibility in compatible industrial formulations.

However, the solid material reacts strongly with moisture and requires strict storage controls.

Manufacturers must protect it from humid air and use appropriate equipment to prevent uncontrolled chemical exposure.

Sodium Methoxide Uses and Industrial Applications

1. Biodiesel Production and Transesterification

Biodiesel manufacturers use sodium methylate as an alkaline catalyst during the conversion of vegetable oils, animal fats, and other suitable triglyceride feedstocks.

The transesterification reaction produces fatty acid methyl esters (FAME), which form the main components of conventional biodiesel.

The process also generates glycerol as a coproduct.

Manufacturers choose this catalyst because it provides strong alkaline activity and supports efficient conversion under controlled production conditions.

However, feedstock quality directly affects the reaction.

High moisture content and excessive free fatty acids can increase soap formation, complicate product separation, and reduce overall yield.

Therefore, biodiesel producers should evaluate feedstock characteristics, catalyst purity, and process compatibility before choosing a commercial formulation.

2. Pharmaceutical and Fine Chemical Manufacturing

Pharmaceutical manufacturers use sodium methanolate in selected organic synthesis processes.

The compound acts as a strong base and supports the preparation of important chemical intermediates.

Common applications include:

• Pharmaceutical intermediate production

• Selected condensation reactions

• Alkoxide-based transformations

• Organic compound synthesis

• Specialty chemical manufacturing

• Selected vitamin synthesis processes

Manufacturers must verify impurity limits and product quality before using the reagent in regulated pharmaceutical processes.

Industrial-grade material does not automatically meet pharmaceutical manufacturing requirements.

3. Agrochemical Production

Agrochemical manufacturers use this alkaline reagent during the production of selected pesticides, herbicides, and chemical intermediates.

Its chemical properties support specific organic transformations that require strongly basic conditions.

Manufacturers evaluate solvent compatibility, reagent purity, and moisture content to maintain consistent reaction performance.

4. Polymer and Specialty Chemical Processing

The chemical industry uses sodium methylate in selected polymer-related reactions, specialty chemical production, and organic synthesis.

Some chemical recycling processes also use this compound during the methanolysis of polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

The reagent supports specific reaction pathways that convert suitable polymer materials into useful chemical intermediates.

Manufacturers must evaluate process conditions and chemical compatibility before selecting the catalyst.

5. Organic Synthesis and Chemical Intermediates

Chemical producers use sodium methanolate as a strong base or methoxide reagent in selected industrial reactions.

Typical applications include ester transformations, condensation reactions, and nucleophilic substitution chemistry.

Its alkaline properties help manufacturers carry out specific transformations under suitable reaction conditions.

Sodium Methoxide Technical Data Sheet (TDS)

The following table provides representative specifications for a commercial 30% solution in methanol.

Technical Note: These figures represent typical industrial characteristics rather than guaranteed specifications for a particular shipment. Buyers should request the manufacturer’s latest Technical Data Sheet and Certificate of Analysis.

Sodium Methoxide vs Sodium Hydroxide

Although both compounds act as strong bases, they have different chemical properties and industrial applications.

In biodiesel production, sodium hydroxide can introduce additional water into methanol-based catalyst systems through equilibrium reactions.

This water may increase unwanted soap formation, particularly when the feedstock contains excessive free fatty acids.

Sodium methylate offers an alternative for properly designed methanol-based production systems.

For another industrial sodium compound, explore Sodium Sulfide, which manufacturers use in leather processing, chemical production, and selected mineral processing applications.

How to Evaluate Industrial Catalyst Quality

Industrial buyers should evaluate several important factors before purchasing an alkaline chemical catalyst.

Active Chemical Concentration

Active concentration determines the amount of useful chemical material in each shipment.

Two formulations may have similar appearances but contain different concentrations.

Therefore, buyers should compare actual assay results rather than relying only on nominal product grades.

Moisture and Carbonate Content

Moisture can reduce chemical stability and generate unwanted sodium hydroxide.

Exposure to atmospheric carbon dioxide can increase carbonate contamination.

These impurities may affect catalytic performance and reaction efficiency.

Buyers should review impurity limits and batch-specific analytical results before confirming an order.

Packaging Integrity

Damaged packaging can expose the product to atmospheric moisture.

This exposure may reduce material quality and create serious safety hazards.

Therefore, customers should inspect container seals, labeling, and transport documentation.

Batch Traceability

Industrial procurement requires reliable manufacturing records.

Buyers should request a Certificate of Analysis that identifies the production batch, active content, and relevant impurity measurements.

Sodium Methoxide Price per Ton

Industrial catalyst prices depend on chemical concentration, purity, order quantity, packaging, manufacturing origin, and transportation requirements.

Customers searching for sodium methylate price per kg or bulk chemical prices should compare products based on their active material content.

A 30% liquid formulation contains substantially less active compound per metric ton than a 98% solid grade.

Comparing Prices by Active Content

The following example illustrates the importance of comparing active chemical costs.

Note: These figures are hypothetical examples for cost comparison. They do not represent current market quotations.

Although the powder provides a lower cost per metric ton of active material in this example, the liquid formulation may reduce certain preparation and handling requirements.

Industrial customers should calculate the total delivered and operational cost before selecting a product.

Industrial Packaging and Bulk Export

Manufacturers package liquid sodium methylate in approved chemical containers that meet the requirements of the specific formulation.

Common industrial packaging options may include:

• Approved chemical drums

• Compatible intermediate bulk containers

• Suitable tank containers

• Bulk transportation systems designed for the chemical

Solid grades require tightly sealed packaging that protects the material from moisture.

Actual packaging availability depends on the manufacturer, order quantity, chemical compatibility, and dangerous-goods regulations.

Storage and Transportation Requirements

This industrial alkoxide requires careful handling because it reacts with moisture and can cause severe chemical burns.

The solid compound commonly falls under UN 1431, Class 4.2, with a corrosive subsidiary hazard.

A methylate solution in methanol commonly falls under UN 1289, Class 3, with a corrosive subsidiary hazard.

The supplier must verify the correct classification against the actual formulation and applicable transport regulations.

Industrial facilities should:

• Keep containers tightly sealed.

• Prevent contact with water and humid air.

• Control ignition sources around methanol solutions.

• Use compatible chemical handling equipment.

• Follow the manufacturer’s Safety Data Sheet.

• Provide appropriate personal protective equipment.

• Train personnel in emergency response procedures.

Sodium Methoxide Supplier for Industrial Buyers

Industrial customers need consistent product quality, reliable documentation, suitable packaging, and competitive commercial terms.

Basekim supplies industrial chemical products to international customers, with grade availability, packaging, and export arrangements subject to confirmation.

Buyers should request technical specifications and batch documentation before finalizing orders.

Bulk Purchase and Commercial Quotation

Basekim welcomes inquiries from biodiesel manufacturers, chemical producers, industrial distributors, and international importers.

Customers can request quotations for available formulations according to their production requirements.

To receive an accurate commercial offer, buyers should provide:

• Required product grade

• Liquid or solid formulation

• Active concentration

• Order quantity

• Preferred packaging

• Destination country and port

• Required technical specifications

• Delivery terms

The commercial team can then review sourcing availability, technical documentation, and shipment requirements.

Contact Basekim to request product specifications, bulk availability, and a commercial quotation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Sodium Methoxide used for?

Manufacturers use this strong alkaline compound in biodiesel production, pharmaceutical synthesis, agrochemical manufacturing, and specialty chemical processing. It supports transesterification and selected organic reactions that require strongly basic conditions.

Is Sodium Methylate the same chemical?

Yes. Sodium methylate and sodium methanolate are alternative names for the same compound, CH3ONa. However, commercial products can contain different concentrations and solvents, so buyers should verify the exact formulation before purchasing.

What is a 30% sodium methylate solution?

It is a liquid formulation that typically contains approximately 30% active compound and 70% methanol by weight. Biodiesel manufacturers commonly use this formulation as an alkaline catalyst in compatible production systems.

What is the CAS number?

The CAS number is 124-41-4. Commercial methanol solutions also contain methanol, which has CAS number 67-56-1. Buyers should review both components in the relevant Safety Data Sheet.

Does the compound dissolve in water?

The material reacts with water to form sodium hydroxide and methanol. This reaction releases heat and creates safety hazards. Industrial users must prevent uncontrolled moisture exposure and follow approved chemical handling procedures.

What is the difference between powder and liquid grades?

Powder provides a higher concentration of active material and requires strict moisture protection. Liquid formulations commonly contain approximately 30% active compound in methanol and support suitable closed industrial processing systems.

Can it replace sodium hydroxide?

The alkoxide can replace sodium hydroxide in selected chemical processes, but the two compounds have different chemical behavior, solvent compatibility, and handling requirements. Manufacturers must validate any substitution before using it in production.

Why do biodiesel manufacturers use sodium methylate?

Biodiesel manufacturers use this catalyst because it provides strong alkaline activity during transesterification. It helps convert suitable triglyceride feedstocks into fatty acid methyl esters under controlled production conditions.

How should buyers select a chemical supplier?

Buyers should compare product concentration, impurity limits, technical documentation, packaging compatibility, transportation requirements, and total delivered cost. A reliable purchasing process includes reviewing the latest TDS, SDS, and batch-specific COA.

How can I purchase industrial quantities?

Industrial customers can submit a quotation request specifying the required concentration, formulation, order volume, packaging, and destination. The supplier can then confirm availability, technical specifications, and applicable delivery arrangements.