From stabilizing the texture of your favorite processed foods to balancing pH levels in pharmaceutical formulations and laboratory buffers, Sodium Dihydrogen Phosphate plays a quiet yet essential role across various industries. Yet, it’s often overlooked, despite being a behind-the-scenes hero in countless processes. Whether you’re a procurement professional, a quality analyst, or simply curious about the chemicals shaping our world, understanding NaH₂PO₄·H₂O can help you make smarter sourcing and application decisions.
Introduction to Sodium Dihydrogen Phosphate Monohydrate
Sodium Dihydrogen Phosphate Monohydrate (NaH₂PO₄·H₂O) is an inorganic compound widely used in food, pharmaceutical, laboratory, and industrial applications. It serves multiple roles—as a buffering agent, emulsifier, acidity regulator, and pH stabilizer, making it an essential ingredient in many formulations where precision and purity are key. The “monohydrate” form refers to the presence of one molecule of water bound within its crystal structure. This form is particularly valued for its high solubility, consistent performance, and ease of handling in both dry and dissolved states.
Chemical Structure & Properties Sodium Dihydrogen Phosphate Monohydrate
Molecular Formula: NaH₂PO₄·H₂O
Molar Mass: 137.99 g/mol
Appearance: White or colorless crystalline powder
Solubility: Highly soluble in water
pH (1% solution): Typically between 4.4 and 4.6
Melting Point: Decomposes at approx. 100°C (due to water loss)
Sodium Dihydrogen Phosphate is a sodium salt of phosphoric acid, consisting of one sodium (Na⁺) ion, one dihydrogen phosphate (H₂PO₄⁻) anion, and one molecule of water in its monohydrate form. It is acidic, which is why it’s often used in buffer systems alongside disodium phosphate to maintain desired pH levels.
Key Applications of Sodium Dihydrogen Phosphate Monohydrate
Thanks to its excellent solubility, buffering capacity, and compatibility with food and pharma-grade processes, NaH₂PO₄·H₂O is used across a wide range of industries. Below are its most prominent applications:
Use of Sodium Dihydrogen Phosphate Monohydrate in the Food Industry
In food processing, Sodium Dihydrogen Phosphate serves as a pH control agent, emulsifier, and texturizer. It plays a crucial role in enhancing stability, improving shelf life, and ensuring product consistency, particularly in processed and packaged goods. Key Uses Include:
Dairy products – Prevents curdling and maintains texture in evaporated milk and cheese spreads.
Baking powders – Act as an acid component in leavening systems, helping baked goods rise uniformly.
Processed meats – Helps retain moisture, maintain color, and improve tenderness in deli meats and sausages.
As a food additive, it’s often used in combination with other phosphate salts and complies with the FCC (Food Chemicals Codex) standards.
Use of Sodium Dihydrogen Phosphate Monohydrate in Pharmaceuticals
In the pharmaceutical sector, NaH₂PO₄·H₂O is widely used as a buffering agent, helping maintain stable pH levels in sensitive formulations. Its neutralizing ability makes it indispensable in both oral and injectable products. Key Applications:
IV fluids and electrolyte solutions – Maintain physiological pH and osmotic balance in intravenous therapy.
Dialysis solutions – A critical component for balancing phosphate levels in hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis.
Formulation base – Used in suspensions, tablets, and syrups where pH stability is crucial for efficacy and shelf life.
It meets USP-grade (United States Pharmacopeia) specifications, making it suitable for high-purity pharmaceutical use.
Laboratory Use of Sodium Dihydrogen Phosphate Monohydrate
In research and clinical laboratories, Sodium Dihydrogen Phosphate Monohydrate is a go-to reagent for buffer solution preparation, especially in biochemical and molecular biology workflows. Common Uses:
Phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) – A fundamental solution used in cell culture, immunoassays, and enzyme activity studies.
Buffer systems – Maintain pH in protein purification, DNA/RNA extraction, and diagnostic reagent preparation.
Its reliable buffering action and ease of preparation make it a staple in most laboratory inventories.
Industrial Applications of Sodium Dihydrogen Phosphate Monohydrate
Beyond food and pharma, this compound also supports various industrial and technical processes. Its compatibility with water systems, metal treatments, and detergents expands its functional value. Industrial Use Cases:
Water treatment – Helps prevent scale formation, softens water, and regulates pH in boiler and cooling systems.
Electroplating – Used as a surface treatment aid, helping improve adhesion and plating quality on metal surfaces.
Detergents and cleaning agents – Enhance cleaning efficiency and stabilize formulas in commercial cleaning products.
Its cost-effective performance and chemical versatility make it ideal for large-scale industrial consumption.
Each application calls for a specific grade and purity level—which is why sourcing from a trusted supplier like Annexe Chem ensures that you get consistent, compliant, and high-performing material every time.
Sodium Dihydrogen Phosphate Monohydrate- Handling & Safety Precautions
While Sodium Dihydrogen Phosphate Monohydrate is generally considered low-risk in most applications, proper handling and storage are essential to maintain product quality and ensure workplace safety.
Storage Guidelines
Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area.
Keep the container tightly sealed to avoid moisture absorption, which can affect consistency and shelf life.
Avoid exposure to direct sunlight or high humidity, especially if stored in bulk.
Use only original or approved chemical containers, preferably HDPE or moisture-proof sacks.
Recommended Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Inhalation: Dust may irritate the respiratory tract; avoid inhaling powder.
Skin contact: Generally non-toxic but may cause mild irritation with prolonged exposure.
Eye contact: Can cause discomfort or redness; rinse with water if contact occurs.
Ingestion: Low toxicity, but not intended for direct consumption unless food/pharma-grade and properly dosed. Seek medical advice if swallowed in large quantities.
Keep eyewash stations and first-aid kits accessible in chemical-handling zones.
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Post time: Sep-16-2025