Editing Paint stripper (section)

===Caustics===
Caustic paint removers, typically aqueous [[sodium hydroxide]] (also known as lye or caustic soda), work by breaking down the [[chemical bonds]] of the paint, usually by [[hydrolysis]] of the esters that comprise the paint film.<ref name=Ullmann/> Caustic removers must be neutralized or the new finish will fail prematurely. In addition, as caustic paint strippers typically include corrosive active ingredients, several side effects and health risks must be taken into account in using. Caustic aqueous solutions are typically used by [[antique dealer]]s who aim to restore old furniture by stripping off worn [[varnish]]es, for example.