K3PO4
Brief Overview
Tripotassium phosphate, also known as tribasic potassium phosphate, appears as a deliquescent white powder. It is a water-soluble ionic salt and are slightly hygroscopic in nature. It is available in hydrated form as a monohydrate and dihydrate and is used as a food additive for its properties as an emulsifier, foaming agent and whipping agent.
Manufacturing Processes
Tripotassium phosphate can be manufactured through the reaction between ammonium phosphate and potassium chloride.
(NH4)3PO4 + 3KCl → K3PO4 + 3NH4Cl
Food Industry
Tripotassium phosphate is used as a food additive for its properties as an emulsifier, foaming agent and whipping agent in the food industry. It is used in the production of processed meat products, processed cheeses and canned soups. It is used as an acidity regulator for regulating the acidity or alkalinity of a food. Tripotassium phosphate is even used as an emulsifier agent that forms or preserves a mixture of substances normally incapable of being mixed. Tripotassium phosphate is also used as a sequestrant agent can control the availability of a cation. It is used as a stabilizer that maintains the uniform dispersal of substances in food products. Tripotassium phosphate is found in cooked and cured meats, milk and cream products and drinking chocolate.
Agriculture Industry
Tripotassium phosphate is used as a soluble fertilizer to make fertilizer compounds of Nitrogen and phosphorous pentoxide.
Other applications
Tripotassium phosphate is found in liquid soap and refined gasoline products. Tripotassium phosphate is also used in pharmaceutical and paper making industries.