polyfosfaattisuoloja

Polyfosfaattisuolat are inorganic compounds containing multiple phosphate groups linked together. In chemistry, they are often considered linear or cyclic polymers of phosphate units. The general formula can be represented as M_{n+2}P_nO_{3n+1} where M is a metal cation and n is the number of phosphate units. Shorter polyphosphates are sometimes referred to as metaphosphates when they form cyclic structures, or pyrophosphates when n=2, representing the simplest linked phosphate. These compounds are formed by the dehydration of phosphoric acid.

Polyfosfaattisuolat have a variety of applications due to their ability to sequester metal ions and their chelating properties. They are commonly used as food additives, particularly in processed meats and dairy products, where they act as emulsifiers, sequestrants, and moisture retainers. In detergents, they function as water softeners by binding calcium and magnesium ions, thereby improving cleaning efficiency. Industrially, they are employed in water treatment to prevent scale formation and corrosion. Some polyphosphates also have biological roles, such as in bone structure as hydroxyapatite, a form of calcium phosphate. The specific properties and applications depend heavily on the length of the polyphosphate chain and the associated cation.