Lye, also known as sodium hydroxide, is a strong alkaline compound that is commonly used in soap making and other cleaning products.
In survival situations, lye can be used to purify water by neutralizing harmful bacteria and viruses. It can also be combined with animal fat or vegetable oil to make homemade soap.
However, lye should always be handled with caution as it can cause severe burns and should only be used by those who are properly trained in its handling and use.
Aside from its uses in soap making and water purification, lye has many other practical applications that may come in handy during survival situations.
Firstly, lye can be used as a substitute for baking soda in baking recipes. It produces a similar chemical reaction when combined with acidic ingredients, resulting in leavened baked goods.
Additionally, lye can be used to unclog drains and pipes due to its strong caustic properties that break down blockages. However, caution should be taken when using it for this purpose as it can also damage certain materials such as plastic or aluminum.
In some cases, lye can also be used as a pesticide by mixing it with water and spraying it on plants to deter pests.