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Its chemical formula is NH4HCO3. The molecular structure consists of ammonium ion (NH4+) and bicarbonate ion (HCO3−). The ammonium ion has a nitrogen atom bonded to four hydrogen atoms, and the bicarbonate ion is composed of a carbon atom connected to a bicarbonate group.
It is a white crystalline or powdery substance, odorless with a salty taste. It is highly soluble in water, but its solubility decreases with increasing temperature. In aqueous solution, it undergoes hydrolysis and shows weak alkalinity. It is insoluble in organic solvents such as ethanol and acetone. Moreover, it decomposes easily upon heating and starts to decompose significantly at around 36°C under normal pressure.
In the food industry, ammonium bicarbonate is an important additive. It functions as a leavening agent, especially suitable for baked foods such as biscuits and cakes. During the baking process, it decomposes upon heating to produce carbon dioxide gas, creating a porous structure in the food, making it soft and delicious, and thus improving the taste and flavor of the food. It can also be used in the preparation of compound leavening agents to play a role in dough fermentation and other processes.
It is an important chemical raw material. It can be used to produce ammonium salts, such as ammonium chloride and ammonium sulfate, through double decomposition reactions with corresponding anions. In addition, in the production of fire extinguishers, ammonium bicarbonate is one of the basic components of the extinguishing agent, utilizing the large amount of carbon dioxide gas produced upon its decomposition to achieve the purpose of fire extinguishing.
In agriculture, ammonium bicarbonate is a commonly used nitrogen fertilizer. It has a relatively high nitrogen content and a suitable nitrogen form, which can provide an effective nitrogen source for crop growth, promote plant growth and development, enhance the lodging resistance of crops, and increase crop yield and quality.
III. Safety Precautions
Ammonium bicarbonate is somewhat irritating. Inhaling a small amount may cause slight irritation to the respiratory tract, causing symptoms such as coughing and sore throat. Ingestion may cause gastrointestinal discomfort, and in severe cases, vomiting, diarrhea and other symptoms may occur.
During operation, skin contact and inhalation of its dust should be avoided, and operators should wear appropriate protective equipment, such as gloves and masks. When storing, it should be placed in a dry, cool, well-ventilated warehouse, away from fire and heat sources, and prevent moisture. Because ammonium bicarbonate will decompose faster after moisture, reducing fertilizer efficiency or affecting its use effect.
