Ammonium bicarbonate
Ammonium bicarbonate is a versatile chemical compound widely used in the food industry as a leavening agent and in various industrial applications. This white crystalline powder offers excellent performance characteristics that make it indispensable for many manufacturers.
Product Specifications
- Chemical Formula: NH₄HCO₃
- CAS Number: 1066-33-7
- Appearance: White crystalline powder
- Odor: Slight ammonia odor
- Solubility: Highly soluble in water
- Purity: ≥ 99%
- Moisture Content: ≤ 0.25%
- Bulk Density: 0.65-0.75 g/cm³
- pH Value (1% solution): 7.8-8.2
Technical Parameters
| Parameter | Specification | Test Method |
|---|---|---|
| Assay (NH₄HCO₃) | ≥ 99.0% | GB/T 6276.1 |
| Chloride (Cl) | ≤ 0.003% | GB/T 6276.6 |
| Sulfate (SO₄) | ≤ 0.007% | GB/T 6276.5 |
| Iron (Fe) | ≤ 0.002% | GB/T 6276.8 |
| Heavy Metals (as Pb) | ≤ 0.0005% | GB/T 6276.9 |
| Non-volatile Matter | ≤ 0.05% | GB/T 6276.2 |
Applications of Ammonium Bicarbonate
Ammonium bicarbonate serves multiple purposes across various industries:
- Food Industry: As a leavening agent in flat baked goods like crackers and cookies
- Pharmaceuticals: Used in cough syrups and other medicinal preparations
- Agriculture: Provides a source of nitrogen in fertilizers
- Fire Extinguishers: Component in some dry chemical fire extinguishers
- Textile Industry: Used in dyeing and printing processes
FAQ About Ammonium Bicarbonate
What is the shelf life of ammonium bicarbonate?
When stored properly in a cool, dry place with tight sealing, ammonium bicarbonate typically has a shelf life of 2-3 years. The product should be kept away from moisture and heat sources to maintain its quality and effectiveness.
Is ammonium bicarbonate safe for food applications?
Yes, food-grade ammonium bicarbonate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used in accordance with good manufacturing practices. It decomposes completely during baking, leaving no residual ammonia in the final product.
How does ammonium bicarbonate compare to baking powder in baking?
Ammonium bicarbonate acts as a single-acting leavener that releases all its gas at once when heated, while baking powder is typically double-acting. This makes ammonium bicarbonate particularly suitable for thin, dry baked goods that require rapid and complete leavening without residual byproducts.
What are the storage requirements for ammonium bicarbonate?
Ammonium bicarbonate should be stored in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from heat sources and direct sunlight. Keep containers tightly closed when not in use to prevent moisture absorption and reaction with atmospheric carbon dioxide.
Can ammonium bicarbonate be used in organic food production?
In many countries, food-grade ammonium bicarbonate is permitted for use in organic food production when processed without prohibited substances, though regulations vary by certifying agency. Always check with your local organic certification body for specific guidelines.
Packaging Options
We offer ammonium bicarbonate in various packaging solutions to meet different customer needs:
- 25 kg multi-layer paper bags with PE liner
- 50 lb fiber drums with plastic liners
- 1,000 kg bulk bags with moisture barrier
- Custom packaging available upon request
Safety Information
While ammonium bicarbonate is generally safe when handled properly, we recommend the following precautions:
- Use in well-ventilated areas to avoid ammonia vapor exposure
- Wear appropriate PPE including gloves and safety glasses
- Avoid contact with eyes, skin, or clothing
- Store separately from acids and strong oxidizers
- Follow local regulations for disposal
For more detailed technical information or to request product samples, please contact our technical support team who can provide specific guidance about using ammonium bicarbonate in your application.