The World’s Major Chemical Industries

Abstract

The use of chemicals dates back to the ancient civilizations. For example, many chemicals were known and used by the ancient Egyptians---they used soda (known to them as `natron') mixed with animal fats as soap to wash corpses, and on its own in the mummifying process which followed. Glass objects and glazed pottery, which were buried with the mummies for their use in their assumed after-life, were made from soda and sand.