Tri Ammonium Citrate: The Ultimate Product Guide

Tri ammonium citrate, also known as ammonium citrate, is an important compound with the chemical formula (NH4)3C6H5O7(NH_4)_3C_6H_5O_7(NH4​)3​C6​H5​O7​. This colorless or white crystalline powder is a salt formed from citric acid and ammonia. With its unique properties, tri ammonium citrate is widely used across various industries, including food, pharmaceuticals, and agriculture. Renowned for its effectiveness as a buffering agent and nutrient source, tri ammonium citrate is essential for numerous applications. In this comprehensive product description, we will explore its properties, applications, benefits, and safety considerations, highlighting its significance in multiple fields.

Chemical Properties

Composition and Structure

Tri ammonium citrate consists of three ammonium ions (NH₄⁺) and one citrate ion (C₆H₅O₇³⁻). It is typically produced by neutralizing citric acid with ammonia, resulting in a stable compound that possesses unique chemical properties.

Physical Characteristics

• Appearance: White crystalline powder
• Molecular Weight: Approximately 201.19 g/mol
• Solubility: Highly soluble in water
• pH: Slightly acidic in solution

These properties make tri ammonium citrate suitable for various applications across different industries.

Applications of Tri Ammonium Citrate

1. Food Industry

One of the primary uses of tri ammonium citrate is in the food industry:

• Food Additive: It is commonly used as a food additive, where it acts as a stabilizer and emulsifier. Its ability to improve texture and consistency makes it valuable in processed foods, dairy products, and beverages.
• Buffering Agent: Tri ammonium citrate helps maintain pH levels in food products, ensuring consistent flavor and quality, particularly in acidic foods and beverages.

2. Pharmaceuticals

In the pharmaceutical sector, tri ammonium citrate is utilized for:

• Excipients: It serves as an excipient in pharmaceutical formulations, aiding in the stabilization of active ingredients and enhancing the overall efficacy of medications.
• Antacid Component: Due to its buffering properties, tri ammonium citrate is often used in antacid formulations to neutralize excess stomach acid.

3. Agriculture

In agriculture, tri ammonium citrate plays a significant role:

• Fertilizer Component: It is used as a nitrogen source in fertilizers, promoting plant growth and improving crop yield. Its unique composition provides essential nutrients that benefit a wide range of plants.
• Soil Amendment: Tri ammonium citrate can help improve soil fertility and structure, enhancing nutrient availability for crops.

4. Chemical Manufacturing

In chemical manufacturing, tri ammonium citrate is employed for:

• Reagent: It is often used as a reagent in various chemical reactions, facilitating the synthesis of other compounds and enhancing reaction efficiency.
• Stabilizer: The compound acts as a stabilizer in chemical formulations, helping to maintain product consistency and quality.

5. Laboratory Use

In laboratory settings, tri ammonium citrate is frequently used:

• Buffer Solutions: It is commonly used to prepare buffer solutions, providing a stable pH environment for biochemical assays and experiments.
• Analytical Applications: Tri ammonium citrate can be used in various analytical procedures, including titrations and qualitative analysis, making it an essential reagent for chemists.

Advantages of Using Tri Ammonium Citrate

1. Versatility

One of the primary advantages of tri ammonium citrate is its versatility. It finds applications across multiple industries, including food, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and chemical manufacturing. This multifunctional nature makes it a valuable resource for professionals in various fields.

2. Effective Buffering Properties

Tri ammonium citrate is known for its effective buffering properties, which help maintain stable pH levels in various formulations. This characteristic is crucial in both food and pharmaceutical applications, ensuring quality and consistency.

3. Nutrient Source

As a nitrogen-rich compound, tri ammonium citrate provides essential nutrients for plant growth, making it an excellent choice for fertilizers and soil amendments.

4. Cost-Effectiveness

Compared to other buffering agents and fertilizers, tri ammonium citrate is often more affordable, providing significant benefits without requiring large quantities. This makes it an economical choice for manufacturers and researchers alike.

How to Use Tri Ammonium Citrate

1. In the Food Industry

When using tri ammonium citrate in food applications:

• Dosage: The recommended dosage varies depending on the specific application, typically ranging from 0.1% to 0.5% of the total product weight.
• Incorporation: Mix tri ammonium citrate with other ingredients during food processing to ensure even distribution and stability.

2. In Pharmaceuticals

For pharmaceutical applications:

• Formulation: Incorporate tri ammonium citrate into formulations at recommended concentrations, typically around 0.1% to 1%.
• Quality Control: Regularly monitor the stability and efficacy of formulations to ensure compliance with industry standards.

3. In Agriculture

When using tri ammonium citrate in agricultural applications:

• Fertilizer Application: The recommended dosage typically ranges from 100 to 300 kg per hectare, depending on soil tests and crop requirements. It can be mixed into the soil or applied as a foliar spray.
• Soil Amendment: Incorporate tri ammonium citrate into soil at recommended rates to improve fertility and nutrient availability.

4. In Chemical Manufacturing

For chemical applications:

• Reagent Use: Follow established protocols for using tri ammonium citrate as a reagent in reactions, ensuring accurate measurements for desired outcomes.
• Stabilization: Utilize the compound to stabilize formulations according to established industry practices.

5. In Laboratory Use

When using tri ammonium citrate in laboratory experiments:

• Preparation of Buffers: Prepare buffer solutions by dissolving tri ammonium citrate in water at the required concentrations, ensuring proper handling and safety measures.
• Analytical Procedures: Incorporate tri ammonium citrate in analytical procedures according to established protocols for accurate results.

Safety and Handling

1. Toxicity

Tri ammonium citrate is generally regarded as safe for use in food, pharmaceuticals, and agricultural applications when handled properly. However, excessive exposure may cause irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract.

2. Protective Measures

When handling tri ammonium citrate, it is essential to:

• Wear Protective Gear: Use gloves, goggles, and appropriate lab attire to minimize exposure risks.
• Ensure Proper Ventilation: Work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling dust or fumes.

3. Storage

Store tri ammonium citrate in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. Ensure that containers are tightly sealed to prevent contamination and degradation.

Environmental Considerations

Tri ammonium citrate is considered environmentally friendly when used according to recommended practices. However, proper disposal methods should be followed to minimize any potential impact. Always adhere to local regulations regarding chemical waste disposal.

Conclusion

Tri ammonium citrate is a versatile and essential compound widely used in the food industry, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and chemical manufacturing. Its unique properties, including effective buffering capabilities and nutrient content, make it an invaluable resource for professionals across various industries.

When purchasing tri ammonium citrate, choose reputable suppliers that provide high-quality products and detailed safety data sheets. Understanding its applications, benefits, and safety measures will help you maximize the potential of this remarkable compound in your projects.

Whether you’re a food manufacturer looking to enhance product quality, a pharmaceutical expert seeking reliable excipients, or an agricultural specialist aiming to improve crop yields, tri ammonium citrate can meet your needs. Embrace the advantages of this compound and unlock new possibilities in your field!