Chemical Type(s)
Location(s)
- Chicago
Description
Sodium Hexametaphosphate (SHMP)
Chemical Formula: (NaPO₃)<sub>n</sub> (where n typically ranges from 6 to 20)
Sodium Hexametaphosphate (SHMP) is a versatile inorganic compound known for its excellent chelating and sequestering properties. It is a glassy, hygroscopic solid that readily dissolves in water.
Key Uses:
Water Treatment:
- Corrosion Inhibition: Effectively inhibits corrosion in industrial water systems by sequestering metal ions that can cause corrosion.
- Scale Prevention: Prevents the formation of scale in boilers, cooling towers, and heat exchangers by binding to calcium and magnesium ions.
- Water Softening: Helps soften hard water by sequestering calcium and magnesium ions.
Food Industry:
- Food Additive (E452i): Used as a food additive in a variety of applications, including:
- Meat processing: Improves meat quality and shelf life.
- Dairy products: Enhances the stability and texture of dairy products.
- Beverages: Improves the clarity and stability of beverages.
- Emulsifier: Stabilizes emulsions in various food products.
Detergents & Cleaners:
- Builder in Detergents: Enhances the cleaning performance of detergents by sequestering metal ions and improving surfactant effectiveness.
Industrial Applications:
- Textile Industry: Used in textile dyeing and finishing processes.
- Paper Industry: Employed in paper manufacturing processes.
- Ceramic Industry: Used in the production of ceramics.