Sodium tripolyphosphate

Sodium tripolyphosphate (STPP) is an inorganic compound with the formula Na5P3O10. It is a white, crystalline solid that is highly soluble in water, producing an alkaline solution. Sodium tripolyphosphate is most commonly used as a preservative and emulsifier in food processing, and also finds applications in detergent production and water treatment.

Chemical Properties

Sodium tripolyphosphate is a polyphosphate of sodium. It is a salt of tripolyphosphoric acid, with the chemical formula Na5P3O10. The compound is made up of four oxygen atoms, five sodium atoms, and three phosphorus atoms. It is a white, crystalline solid that is highly soluble in water, producing an alkaline solution.

Uses

Sodium tripolyphosphate has a wide range of uses in various industries.

Food Industry

In the food industry, it is used as a preservative and emulsifier. It helps to maintain the moisture and flavor in processed foods such as meat, poultry, and seafood. It is also used in the production of cheese and cereals.

Detergent Production

In detergent production, sodium tripolyphosphate acts as a water softener and helps to improve the cleaning efficiency of the detergent. It is also used in industrial cleaning processes.

Water Treatment

Sodium tripolyphosphate is used in water treatment processes to prevent the formation of scale and corrosion. It is also used to control the pH of water.

Health and Environmental Concerns

While sodium tripolyphosphate is generally considered safe for human consumption in small amounts, excessive intake can lead to health problems such as kidney disease and osteoporosis. It is also a potential environmental pollutant, as it can contribute to the eutrophication of water bodies when released in large quantities.

See Also

• Phosphates
• Food additives
• Water treatment