Chemical Properties
Extremely hygroscopic; becomes moist and sticky even after standing in the air for a short time. Dissolves slowly in cold water but is quite soluble in warm water between 30 and 50°C. According to Bronnikov, solubility (20°C) 973.2 g./liter; (80°C) 1744 g./liter. Its solutions give precipitates with Mg, Ca, Ba, Pb and Ag salts. These precipitates are soluble in an excess of the polyphosphate. Concentrated NaCl solution and alcohol flocculate the solutions, gradually forming a viscous, oily mass. No definite melting point; with careful heating, the material starts to liquefy somewhat above 600°C.
