Caustic chemicals that can destroy or severely damage the flesh on contact. Such chemicals include various inorganic and organic acids and bases. The most familiar chemicals called caustics are sodium hydroxide (caustic soda, or lye) and potassium hydroxide (caustic potash). Other chemicals are also caustics, for example, silver nitrate, which has been used as an antibacterial agent and for treating warts.

Christian Kühn

Christian Kühn

Updated at: 07. September 2023
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