NaGHB solution cloudy/muddy

[Freak_]

Solid NaGHB made using NaHCO³ (Sodiumbicarbonate) is white, while Solid NaGHB made using NaOH (Sodiumhydroxid) is more clear. Mixed with H2O the NaOH-GHB solution is clear while the solution of NaHCO³-GHB is little cloudy/muddy. Is this normal?

[MrG]

This should be in the chemistry section. First MOD to spot it and move it over wins a gift basket of kudos.

In SWIM's experience of making powdered NaGHB it presents itself as a clear solution during the heating process of the recipe and, left in the bowl to cool down slightly, will begin to look cloudy until it is poured out into strips whereby it cools to room temp as a solid white possibly ivory colour.

Found this in another topic about using bicarb instead:

Add 273 g NaHCO3 (3.25 moles) to 1125 mL distilled water in a glass container. Slowly bring the solution to a boil while stirring with a glass rod or similar. All of the baking soda will dissolve. Carbon dioxide will be seen leaving the solution as it comes to a boil. This is the sodium bicarbonate
2 NaHCO3 -> Na2CO3 + H2O + CO2
Reduce the heat to a light boil, and slowly add 250ml gamma-Butyrolactone (280g, 3.25 moles). The addition is not immediately exothermic as with the sodium hydroxide synthesis. Keep this solution at a light boil for 30 minutes. Check the pH with universal pH paper. We are aiming for a pH around 7, but anything 6 to 8 is perfectly safe. If the pH is too high, add a small amount more GBL and continue to reflux.
The solution will be perfectly clear and should be absolutely colorless. breaking down into a slightly strong base, sodium carbonate:

Seems like SWIY's solution should still be clear regardless of the base used.