Tribasic sodium phosphate, also known as trisodium phosphate (TSP), is a chemical compound with the formula Na3PO4. Here are some key properties and uses:
_Properties_
1. _Chemical Formula_: Na3PO4
2. _Molecular Weight_: 163.94 g/mol
3. _Appearance_: White crystalline powder
4. _Solubility_: Soluble in water, slightly soluble in organic solvents
5. _pH_: 12-13 (1% aqueous solution)
_Uses_
1. _Pharmaceutical Applications_: Tribasic sodium phosphate is used as an excipient in pharmaceutical applications, such as:
1. Tablet and capsule formulations
2. Injectable solutions
3. Topical creams and ointments
2. _Food Industry_: It is used as a food additive, serving as:
1. A pH buffer and stabilizer
2. A texture modifier and emulsifier
3. A nutrient supplement (phosphorus source)
3. _Cleaning and Detergents_: Tribasic sodium phosphate is used in cleaning and detergent applications, such as:
1. Laundry detergents
2. Dishwashing detergents
3. Industrial cleaning agents
4. _Water Treatment_: It is used in water treatment applications, such as:
1. Corrosion inhibitor
2. Scale inhibitor
3. Coagulant aid
_Benefits_
1. _High pH Buffering Capacity_: Tribasic sodium phosphate has a high pH buffering capacity, making it effective in maintaining a stable pH in various applications.
2. _Good Solubility_: It has good solubility in water, making it easy to formulate and use in various applications.
3. _Low Toxicity_: Tribasic sodium phosphate is generally considered to be of low toxicity to humans and animals.
