Dicalcium phosphate is a common calcium supplement used to treat or prevent calcium deficiency. It's also used as a food additive and in various industrial applications.
Chemical Structure
Dicalcium phosphate is a calcium salt of phosphoric acid. Its chemical formula is CaHPO₄·2H₂O.
Properties
- Solubility: Slightly soluble in water.
- Taste: Bland, often added to foods without affecting flavor.
- Absorption: Well-absorbed by the body.
- Stability: Stable under normal storage conditions.
Uses
- Calcium Supplement: Dicalcium phosphate is a popular calcium supplement used to treat or prevent calcium deficiency, which can lead to osteoporosis and other bone health issues.
- Food Additive: It's used as a food additive to enhance nutritional value, improve texture, and prevent caking.
- Pharmaceutical Applications: Dicalcium phosphate is used as a filler, binder, and disintegrant in tablets and capsules.
- Industrial Applications: It's used in various industrial processes, such as animal feed, fertilizer, and toothpaste.
