Diammonium phosphate (DAP) is a chemical compound with the formula (NH4)2HPO4. Here are some key properties and uses:
Properties
1. Chemical Formula: (NH4)2HPO4
2. Molecular Weight: 132.07 g/mol
3. Appearance: White crystalline powder
4. Solubility: Soluble in water, slightly soluble in organic solvents
Uses
1. Fertilizer: Diammonium phosphate is widely used as a fertilizer, providing nitrogen and phosphorus to crops.
2. Food Industry: It is used as a food additive, serving as a buffering agent, stabilizer, and texture modifier in products such as baked goods, beverages, and meat products.
3. Pharmaceuticals: DAP is used as an excipient in pharmaceutical applications, such as tablets and capsules.
4. Animal Feed: It is used as a nutrient supplement in animal feed, providing phosphorus and nitrogen to livestock.
5. Industrial Applications: Diammonium phosphate is used in the production of detergents, soaps, and other industrial products.
Benefits
1. High Nutrient Content: DAP provides a high concentration of nitrogen and phosphorus, making it an effective fertilizer.
2. pH Buffering: It has pH buffering properties, which helps to maintain a stable pH in various applications.
3. Cost-Effective: Diammonium phosphate is a cost-effective alternative to other fertilizers and nutrient sources.
4. Wide Range of Applications: DAP has a wide range of uses, from agriculture to food and pharmaceutical industries.