Tripotassium Phosphate

Tripotassium Phosphate TKP E340 (CAS No: 7778-53-2) Supplier in Europe

Tripotassium phosphate (E340) is a chemical compound with a variety of uses in different industries.

Known for its ability to act as a powerful buffering agent, it helps maintain the pH balance in many products, particularly in the food, agricultural, and industrial sectors.

People may encounter it as an additive in processed foods, often aimed at improving taste and texture.

In agriculture, tripotassium phosphate is valued for its role in enhancing nutrient availability in fertilizers.

Its effectiveness is particularly noticeable in promoting healthy plant growth by supplying essential potassium and phosphorus.

This makes it a crucial component for crop cultivation and soil management.

Those working in industrial settings also find tripotassium phosphate useful in metal cleaning and surface treatment processes.

Its versatility extends to water treatment, where it serves to prevent scale formation and corrosion.

Understanding the broad applications of this compound highlights its significance across various fields.

Chemical Properties

Tripotassium phosphate (E340) demonstrates significant importance due to its unique molecular formula, specific chemical structure, solubility in water, and notable stability under various conditions.

Molecular Formula

Tripotassium phosphate carries the molecular formula K₃PO₄.

This composition comprises three potassium (K) ions, one phosphorus (P) atom, and four oxygen (O) atoms. The molecular weight is approximately 212.27 g/mol.

These elements combine to form a compound that is prevalent in various applications, including as a food additive and in industrial settings.

Chemical Structure

The chemical structure of tripotassium phosphate consists of a phosphate anion (PO₄³⁻) surrounded by three potassium (K⁺) ions.

This ionic compound forms a crystalline structure where the charges balance each other.

The phosphate group is tetrahedral, meaning the four oxygen atoms form a three-dimensional shape around the phosphorus atom.

This arrangement contributes to the molecule’s stability and solubility.

Solubility

Tripotassium phosphate is highly soluble in water, making it very effective in aqueous solutions.

At 20°C, its solubility is around 90 g per 100 mL of water.

This high solubility is advantageous for its various uses in detergents, fertilizers, and as a buffering agent.

It does not readily dissolve in alcohols, which limits its use in non-aqueous systems.

Stability

Tripotassium phosphate is stable under standard temperature and pressure conditions.

It does not decompose easily and maintains its chemical integrity in both acidic and alkaline environments.

Its stability makes it suitable for long-term storage and usage in diverse applications, including food preservation and cleaning agents.

It does not react vigorously with other chemicals under normal conditions, contributing to its reliability as an additive.

Applications

Tripotassium phosphate is a versatile compound with various applications in different industries. This section explores its significant uses in the food industry, cleaning agents, fertilizers, and pharmaceuticals.

Food Industry

Tripotassium phosphate serves as a food additive, functioning as an emulsifier, stabilizer, and chelator.

It helps maintain the texture and freshness of processed foods.

It’s frequently found in items like processed meats and dairy products. Additionally, it adjusts the pH levels of certain foods which can enhance flavors.

Its ability to bind with calcium ions is useful in preventing spoilage.

Cleaning Agents

In cleaning agents, tripotassium phosphate acts as an efficient detergent and degreaser.

It is commonly included in household and industrial cleaning solutions.

Its alkaline nature helps break down grease, making it ideal for kitchen and garage surfaces.

Its use in cleaning blends ensures effective removal of tough stains, improving the overall efficacy of various cleaning products.

Fertilizers

Tripotassium phosphate is valuable in the agricultural sector as a fertilizer.

It supplies essential potassium and phosphate nutrients to plants, promoting healthy growth.

It’s used in liquid and solid fertilizer formulations. Its application can lead to improved crop yield and quality.

Farmers often rely on its ability to enhance root development and aid in the synthesis of critical proteins.

Pharmaceuticals

In pharmaceuticals, tripotassium phosphate is used as a buffering agent and nutrient supplement. It helps maintain the stability and functionality of various medications.

It also finds use in dietary supplements to provide essential minerals. Its biocompatibility ensures it’s safe for human consumption, making it a trusted ingredient in many health-related products.