Phosphorous is one of the most common elements in plant, animal, and human life. It occurs naturally in the environment. Phosphates are compounds made from the reaction of oxygen and phosphorous. The basic unit of phosphates is PO4. In general terms, phosphates can be referred to as phosphoric acid salts or esters. They are widely used in construction, mining, water treatment, and agriculture.
Different Types of Phosphates and their Uses
Sodium Trimetaphosphate (STMP)
Sodium trimetaphosphate is a metaphosphate of sodium formed from a reaction between trimetaphosphoric acid and a sodiumsalt. The colorless solid is used in the food and construction sectors.
When STMP is added to gypsum, it optimizes the setting time and enhances the wall board’s structural integrity. It is an essential additive used in producing quality wallboard used by individuals and businesses in the home remodeling and construction industry. STMP is also used as a stabilizing agent in synthetic dairy products, metal cleaning, and portable water treatment.
Sodium Hexametaphosphate (SHMP)
Sodium hexametaphosphate is a compound formed from a reaction of hexaphosphoric acid and sodium salt. SHMP is commonly used in water treatment as an antiscale, water softening, dispersing, and sequestrant agent. It helps to prevent mineral and steel corrosion. Industrial SHMP is added to a boiler compound to eliminate calcium hardness in factory boilers.
It is also used in the coating and paint industry to enhance corrosion inhibition and stabilizing emulsion. You can find the compound in detergent formulations for products like soaps, dishwashers, and bath salts. In the construction industry, Sodium hexametaphosphate is used as a cement retarder.
Sodium Tripolyphosphate (STPP)
Sodium tripolyphosphate is commonly used as an additive in synthetic detergent production, paint, ceramic, varnish, and water treatment. In the food industry, STTP helps with moisture retention and is used to preserve the color of meat and improve its texture.
Sodium tripolyphosphate enhances the ability of cleaning detergents to penetrate through fibers. It also helps in foaming and water softening. Most cleaning products like kitchen and bathroom detergents contain STTP. The compound is also a tartar control agent and is effective in drilling muds and flame retardants.
Ammonium Polyphosphate phase II (APP-II)
Ammonium polyphosphate phase II (APP-II) is a thermally stable and non-reactive salt formed due to a reaction between ammonia and polyphosphoric acid. APP-II is typically used in the production of fireproof coating. Due to its environmentally friendly nature, the compound produces plastics, coatings, paints, and flame retardants. The negligible water solubility makes it perfect for humid environments.
Shop Quality Phosphate Salts Today
Recently there has been a shortage of phosphorous, the main raw material used to produce phosphate additives. As the phosphorous supply is slowly recovering, Bisley has what it takes to supply these salts for any industrial application. Bisley has local people on the ground in key source countries and markets which has contributed to growing and maintaining many long lasting supplier relationships, allowing us to meet the needs of customers in times of market difficulty. Contact us to find a variety of phosphates, including AAPP-III, SHMP, STTP, and STMP.
View our range of Dry Mix Mortar Raw Materials
