A scientific review informed about the characteristics of basic compounds and materials used in industrial and technological chemistry. The review emphasized on the the properties of liquid bases, the characterization, and use of solid bases. The contribution was intended to emphasize the linkage between the chemical knowledge of acid-base interactions and the engineering of chemical processes, along with their environmental impact. It also provided evidence of trends aimed at improving process safety and limiting environmental pollution when they were related to the increased use of solid basic materials.