Granular vs. Flake Lye

[Shelbyw]

I have used granular lye and it mixes very well with ice water. When I tried using the lye flakes I found that it didn't mix well, and made a mess in the container.

What am I doing wrong with the lye flakes?

Any help is greatly appreciated!

 

[snappyllama]

The flakes take a little longer and more stirring to totally dissolve.

 

[kchaystack]

I have used granular lye and it mixes very well with ice water. When I tried using the lye flakes I found that it didn't mix well, and made a mess in the container.

What am I doing wrong with the lye flakes?

Any help is greatly appreciated!

Granular NaOH and KOH offer greater surface area so more is in contact with the water, which is why if dissolve faster. Flakes will dissolve, but will take more agitation, and take longer.

Also, cold water will make it harder for things to dissolve. If you are just using plain water with no milk or other stuff that could scorch, there is no need to use ice water. A cold water bath will cool your lye well enough if you do not want to let it sit for a couple hours.

Are you freezing distilled water for your ice? All your water should be distilled, de-ionized or RO water.