trisodiumfosfat

Trisodium phosphate, with the chemical formula Na3PO4, is the sodium salt of phosphoric acid. It is a white crystalline solid that is highly soluble in water and forms solutions that are strongly alkaline. In the solid state it can exist in anhydrous form or as hydrates when exposed to moisture.

Industrial production typically involves neutralizing phosphoric acid with sodium hydroxide or sodium carbonate. The compound is manufactured and sold in various grades, including those intended for general industrial use, cleaning agents, and specialized applications such as food processing or water treatment.

Common uses of trisodium phosphate include cleaning and degreasing in household and industrial products, rust removal, and water-treatment applications where pH adjustment, buffering, and sequestration of hardness ions are needed. In the food industry, food-grade trisodium phosphate may be used as a processing aid to regulate acidity and texture in certain products, though regulatory allowances vary by jurisdiction. It can also act as a buffering agent and a sequestrant in some formulations.

Safety and handling considerations are important when working with trisodium phosphate. It is caustic and can cause skin and eye irritation on contact; inhalation of dust should be avoided. Protective equipment such as gloves and eye protection is recommended. In the environment, excessive discharge can contribute to nutrient loading and eutrophication. Regulations governing its use and disposal vary by country and application.