Same Chemical, Different Name

Same Chemical, Different Name

One thing you quickly learn in the chemical world: The chemistry is universal, but the names definitely aren’t.

A single spelling difference — ph vs f, fate vs phate — can change how a product is interpreted across regions.

Here are some everyday examples we deal with:

1) Phosphate vs Phosfate

The classic “ph” vs “f”. Same compound, different naming traditions.

2) Sulphate vs Sulfate

UK/EU: Sulphate, US: Sulfate. Chemically identical — linguistically different.

3) Aluminium vs Aluminum

Still Al on the periodic table, just missing a vowel.

4) Soda Ash vs Washing Soda

Both are Sodium Carbonate. Industry calls it soda ash, household brands call it washing soda.

5) Caustic Soda vs Sodium Hydroxide

Two names for NaOH, one industrial, one scientific.
 

When in doubt, always refer to the CAS number.
 

#Chemicals #ChemicalIndustry #TollBlending #ChemicalManufacturing #Sustainability #CleaningChemicals #IndustrialChemicals #ChemicalNames #ChemicalEducation #GKEFairChem #FormulationScience #SodaAsh #Phosphate #Sulphate #Aluminium #NaOH #B2BManufacturing #OEMManufacturing #ChemicalDistribution

GKE Fair Chem Pte Ltd, based in Singapore, provides international chemical distribution, toll blending, storage, and transport solutions. Contact us today to learn how we can support your global chemical supply and logistics needs.

Posted by GKE Fair Chem Pte Ltd on 4 Dec 25