Sodium Phosphate Dibasic Anhydrous (Na₂HPO₄)

Sodium Phosphate Dibasic Anhydrous (Na₂HPO₄) is an inorganic compound that is a sodium salt of phosphoric acid. It appears as a white, odorless, crystalline powder. It is commonly used in food, pharmaceuticals, and industrial applications due to its buffering and emulsifying properties. Being “anhydrous” means it contains no water molecules in its structure, making it more stable and concentrated compared to its hydrated forms.

Applications:

1. Food Industry:
   • Used as an emulsifier, stabilizer, and thickener in processed foods.
   • Acts as a buffering agent to maintain the desired pH in food products like baked goods, dairy, and beverages.
   • Functions as a sequestrant to prevent metal ions from affecting the quality of foods.
2. Pharmaceuticals:
   • Used as a buffering agent in medications and as a saline laxative.
   • Involved in preparing certain solutions for intravenous injections, helping maintain electrolyte balance.
3. Water Treatment:
   • Utilized in water treatment systems as a corrosion inhibitor for pipes and as a scale-preventing agent.
4. Industrial Applications:
   • Used in detergents, cleaning agents, and as a component in textile treatment.
   • Functions as a dispersing agent in ceramics, paints, and pigments.
5. Laboratory Use:
   • Acts as a buffering agent in chemical laboratories to maintain stable pH levels in experiments, particularly in biological research.

Handling and Safety:

• Personal Protection: Wear appropriate protective clothing, including gloves and goggles, to avoid skin or eye contact. Use dust masks or respirators in dusty environments.
• Inhalation: Avoid inhaling dust, as it can cause irritation to the respiratory system. Use in well-ventilated areas.
• Skin/Eye Contact: May cause mild irritation on contact. In case of contact, wash skin or eyes with plenty of water.
• Spills: Sweep or vacuum up the material to minimize dust generation. Dispose of according to local environmental regulations.
• First Aid Measures:
  • Inhalation: Move to fresh air if inhaled. Seek medical attention if irritation persists.
  • Skin/Eye Contact: Wash thoroughly with water for 15 minutes. Seek medical advice if irritation continues.
  • Ingestion: If swallowed, rinse mouth and drink water. Do not induce vomiting. Seek medical attention.

Storage:

• Store in a tightly sealed container in a cool, dry place, away from moisture and humidity to prevent clumping or degradation.
• Keep away from strong acids and oxidizing agents to avoid chemical reactions.
• Ensure storage area is well-ventilated, and avoid exposure to heat sources.