Ammonium Bicarbonate
Introduction
Ammonium Bicarbonate is an important inorganic compound having the chemical formula (NH4)HCO3. It is comprised of ammonium cation and bicarbonate anion. It is known my so many other names such as Bicarbonate of Ammonia, Ammonium Hydrogen Carbonate, AmBic etc.
Properties
Ammonium bicarbonate is a colorless, white crystalline solid. It has a density of 1.59 g/ml and melting point of 41.9 °C. The solubility in water is high and has an odor of ammonia. The aqueous solution of ammonium bicarbonate are mildly alkaline in nature
CAS number : 1066 – 33 – 7
Chemical Formula : NH4HCO3
IUPAC name : Ammonium Hydrogen Carbonate
Molecular Weight : 79.05 g/ml
Packaging : 25/50 kg bags, HDPE bags with polyliner inside
Storage : Tightly Closed Containers
Uses and Applications
Used as a leavening agent for flat baked products like cookies, crackers etc. It makes the dough light and softens its texture.
Designated as food additive with E number E503.
It is a basic source of nitrogen in the fertilizer manufancturing. China uses ammonium bicarbonate as an inexpensive nitrogen fertilizer.
Pharma Industries uses ammonium bicarbonate as a key component of expectorant cough syrups
> Used as an important component in fire-extinguisher production.
> Used in the manufacturing of dyes and pigments.
> Finds it huge applications in plastic and rubber industry.
> Used in leather tanning.
> Also used for buffering solutions to impart alkalinity during chemical purification
Production
Ammonium Bicarbonate is prepared by mixing ammonia with carbon dioxide
CO2 + NH3 + H2O ——–> NH4HCO3
The reaction is carried out under cold conditions to avoid thermal decomposition of ammonium bicarbonate.
Safety Measures
Ammonium Bicarbonate can be irritant to skin, eyes and respiratory system. It is advisable to wear protective work clothing , changes clothes and wash it thoroughly after exposure to ammonium bicarbonate.