Chemical Property:
Disodium phosphate, with the chemical formula Na2HPO4, is an inorganic salt composed of two sodium (Na+) ions, one hydrogen phosphate (HPO4^2-) ion, and one water molecule. Disodium phosphate is typically a white, crystalline powder that is highly soluble in water. Its CAS number is 7558-79-4.
Disodium Phosphate (DSP) has various applications across different industries due to its chemical properties. Here are some of its most common uses:
1. Water Treatment:
Boiler Water Treatment: It is employed in boiler water treatment to control scale formation and prevent corrosion in industrial boilers.
Cooling Towers: Disodium phosphate is used in cooling water treatment to inhibit scale formation and reduce corrosion in cooling systems.
2. Laboratory and Analytical Chemistry:
Buffer Solution: In laboratories, disodium phosphate is used to prepare buffer solutions with specific pH levels for various chemical and biological experiments.
3. Pharmaceuticals:
Pharmaceutical Manufacturing: It is utilized in the pharmaceutical industry as a pH regulator in the formulation of medications and as an excipient in tablet formulations.
4. Detergents and Cleaning Products:
Detergents: Disodium phosphate is found in some laundry detergents and cleaning products as a water softener and builder, enhancing the cleaning power of these products by preventing the precipitation of mineral deposits.
5. Cosmetics:
Cosmetic Products: It can be found in certain cosmetic formulations, such as toothpaste, as a pH adjuster and texture modifier.
6. Fire Retardants:
Firefighting Foam: Disodium phosphate is used in some firefighting foams as a fire-retardant agent.
7. Industrial Processes:
Metal Treatment: It may be used in metal processing to remove rust and scale from metal surfaces.
8. Textile Industry:
Textile Processing: In the textile industry, it is used for pH adjustment during various dyeing and finishing processes.
Disodium Phosphate in food grade refers to a purified and safe form of the compound that meets specific standards set by regulatory authorities for its use in the food industry. The European food additive number for it is E339(ii).
In food grade, Disodium Phosphate is carefully manufactured to ensure its suitability for consumption and to meet strict purity requirements.
Disodium Phosphate Food Grade is used in various food and beverage applications:
Food Additive:
Disodium Phosphate food grade is approved by regulatory bodies like the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) for use as a food additive. It serves as a versatile additive in the food industry, contributing to several aspects of food processing and quality.
Emulsification and Stabilization:
Disodium Phosphate can act as an emulsifier and stabilizer in certain food products, helping to create and maintain emulsions (mixtures of substances that don't usually blend, like oil and water) and stabilize the texture of the final product.
pH Regulation:
It is used to adjust pH levels in various food formulations, affecting taste, color, and texture. It can also act as a buffering agent to prevent drastic changes in pH.
Nutritional Supplements:
Disodium Phosphate might be used as a source of phosphorus in certain nutritional supplements. Phosphorus is essential for bone health and various cellular processes.
Baked Goods:
In baking, Disodium Phosphate can be used as a leavening agent when combined with baking soda. It releases carbon dioxide gas, helping dough rise and creating a light texture.
Dairy Products:
It can be used in dairy products to modify texture, improve stability, and control acidity. It's commonly used in cheese processing.
Processed Meats:
Disodium Phosphate can enhance water retention and texture in processed meat products, leading to juicier and more succulent products.
Beverage Industry:
In some beverages, Disodium Phosphate might be used to adjust pH levels, enhance stability, and control acidity.
Is disodium phosphate safe to eat?
Yes, the safety used as a food additive has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA), as well as other authorities.
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