Ammonium Bicarbonate
Synonyms: Ammonium Hydrogen Carbonate, Baking Ammonia
CAS No.: 1066-33-7
Molecular Formula: NH₄HCO₃
Molecular Weight: 79.06 g/mol
1. Product Description
Ammonium Bicarbonate is a white crystalline powder or granule with a strong ammonia odor. It is moderately soluble in water and decomposes easily upon heating, releasing carbon dioxide and ammonia. It is commonly used as a leavening agent, blowing agent, pH regulator, and nitrogen source in food, agriculture, and industrial applications.
2. Specifications
| Parameter | Food Grade | Industrial Grade |
|---|
| Appearance | White crystalline powder or granules | White crystalline powder or granules |
| Assay (as NH₄HCO₃, %) | ≥ 99.0 | ≥ 98.0 |
| Moisture (%) | ≤ 0.4 | ≤ 0.6 |
| Chloride (as Cl⁻, %) | ≤ 0.003 | ≤ 0.01 |
| Sulphate (as SO₄²⁻, %) | ≤ 0.007 | ≤ 0.02 |
| Iron (Fe, ppm) | ≤ 5 | ≤ 20 |
| Arsenic (As, ppm) | ≤ 1 | ≤ 2 |
| Heavy Metals (as Pb, ppm) | ≤ 5 | ≤ 10 |
| Residue on Ignition (%) | ≤ 0.008 | ≤ 0.05 |
| pH (1% solution) | 7.5 – 8.5 | 7.0 – 8.5 |
| Non-volatile Matter | ≤ 0.05 % | ≤ 0.1 % |
| Total Plate Count (cfu/g) | ≤ 1000 | — |
| Yeast & Mold (cfu/g) | ≤ 100 | — |
| E. coli / Salmonella | Negative | — |
3. Applications
Food Industry: Leavening agent for biscuits, cookies, and crackers; pH regulator; foaming agent
Agriculture: Source of nitrogen in fertilizers and animal feed
Industrial Uses: Blowing agent for plastics and rubber; fire extinguishing powders
Laboratory: Buffer and chemical reagent
4. Physical & Chemical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|
| Appearance | White crystalline powder or granules |
| Odor | Strong ammonia odor |
| Taste | Slightly salty, alkaline |
| Solubility | Soluble in water; insoluble in alcohol |
| Density (bulk) | 1.59 g/cm³ |
| Decomposition Temperature | 36–60 °C (releases CO₂ and NH₃) |
| pH (1% solution) | 7.5 – 8.5 |
| Stability | Unstable in heat and moisture; decomposes on exposure to air |
5. Storage & Handling
Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place.
Keep container tightly closed and away from heat or acids.
Avoid exposure to humidity and direct sunlight.
Shelf Life: 12 months under recommended storage conditions.
6. Packaging
| Grade | Packaging |
|---|
| Food Grade | 25 kg PE-lined paper bag or kraft bag |
| Industrial Grade | 25 kg / 50 kg woven bag or jumbo bag |
| Customized Packaging | Available upon request |
7. Safety Information
Hazard Classification: Irritant; decomposes to release ammonia gas
Handling: Use in well-ventilated areas; avoid inhalation of dust or fumes
Spillage: Sweep carefully and rinse with water; avoid contact with acids
Environmental: Non-toxic but releases ammonia — ensure proper ventilation during use
8. Compliance
Food Grade: Complies with FCC, E503(ii) (Ammonium Bicarbonate)
Industrial Grade: Conforms to GB 1886.124-2015 and GB/T 1986-2018
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