Dodecaphosphate

Dodecaphosphate refers to a class of chemical compounds containing twelve phosphate groups. These are typically polymeric phosphates with the general formula [PO3⁻]n where n=12, or more complex structures where twelve phosphate units are linked together. In a linear dodecaphosphate, the phosphate units would be connected in a chain. Branched or cyclic structures are also possible. The precise structure and properties of a dodecaphosphate depend on how the phosphate groups are linked. They are generally soluble in water, and their solutions can be alkaline. These compounds are often formed by the controlled heating of orthophosphate salts, leading to the condensation of phosphate tetrahedra. Dodecaphosphates can be used as chelating agents, sequestering metal ions, and in some industrial applications such as detergents and water treatment. They are related to other polyphosphates, differing in the number of repeating phosphate units. The study of dodecaphosphates falls under the broader field of inorganic chemistry, specifically focusing on the chemistry of phosphorus and oxygen.