Tripotassium Phosphate - India

Brief Overview

Tripotassium phosphate, also recognized as tribasic potassium phosphate, presents itself as a deliquescent white powder. This water-soluble ionic salt exhibits slight hygroscopic characteristics and is accessible in hydrated states as a monohydrate and dihydrate. Employed as a food additive, tripotassium phosphate serves as an emulsifier, foaming agent, and whipping agent. Caution is advised in its usage for individuals with low calcium levels or elevated levels of potassium or phosphorus.

Manufacturing Process

Tripotassium phosphate can be synthesized by the reaction between ammonium phosphate and potassium chloride:
(NH₄)₃PO₄ + 3KCl → K₃PO₄ + 3NH₄Cl

An alternative production method involves a two-step process:

1. Wet phosphoric acid undergoes ultrasonication in an ultrasonic reactor at temperatures ranging from 2 to 80 °C, with a reaction time spanning 10 to 120 minutes.

2. The resulting product is cooled to room temperature, and precipitates are leached, yielding a filter liquor. To adjust the pH of the filter liquor and induce the formation of precipitates, potassium hydroxide, potassium carbonate, or potassium bicarbonate is employed. Subsequently, the new filter liquor undergoes concentration, evaporation, crystallization, and separation processes to obtain potassium phosphate.

Food Industry

Tripotassium phosphate finds application in the food industry as a food additive valued for its roles as an emulsifier, foaming agent, and whipping agent. It is utilized in the production of processed meat items, processed cheeses, and canned soups. Additionally, it serves as an acidity regulator, contributing to the adjustment of the acidity or alkalinity of food products. Acting as an emulsifying agent, it facilitates the formation or preservation of a mixture of substances that would typically resist blending. Tripotassium phosphate functions as a sequestrant agent, offering control over the availability of cations, and as a stabilizer, ensuring the consistent dispersal of substances in various food products. This additive is present in cooked and cured meats, milk and cream products, and drinking chocolate.

Agriculture Industry

Tripotassium phosphate finds application as a water-soluble fertilizer for the formulation of compounds containing nitrogen and phosphorous pentoxide in the field of agriculture.

Cosmetics Industry

In cosmetics, tripotassium phosphate serves as a buffer agent.

Medical Industry

Tripotassium phosphate is a pharmaceutical used to address or prevent hypophosphatemia, a condition characterized by low levels of phosphorus in the blood. It is also included in intravenous (IV) fluids administered to individuals who are unable to consume food or liquids.

Other Applications

Tripotassium phosphate is present in liquid soap and processed gasoline items. It serves as an ingredient in antifreeze and de-icing solutions, as well as in various cleaning and household care products, plastic and rubber items, and food packaging materials. Additionally, it finds application in the pharmaceutical and paper-making sectors.