Sodium bicarbonate
General Product Information
| Article | Sodium bicarbonate |
| Synonyms | E500(ii), Sodium hydrogencarbonate, Baking soda, Bicarbonate of soda, Natrium hydrogen carbonate, Natron |
| CAS No. | 144-55-8 |
| EEG No. | – |
| EINECS No. | 205-633-8 |
| IMO | – |
| Tariff Code | 28363000 |
| UN No. | – |
| VLG/ADR | – |
Description
Sodium bicarbonate, commonly known as baking soda or bicarbonate of soda, is an inorganic salt that is widely used within various industrial, commercial and consumer markets. It is a white, crystalline powder that is odorless and soluble in water. It is produced industrially and also occurs in nature as the mineral nahcolite. It is known for its mild alkaline properties, its reactivity with acids and its stability at dry storage.
Characteristics
- Odor: Odorless.
- Hygroscopic: –
- Color: White.
- Grade: Food.
- Solubility: Highly soluble in water.
- Taste: –
- Shape: Crystalline powder.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Chemical Structure | NaHCO3 |
| Molar Weight | – |
| Melting Point | Approx. 270°C (decomposes). |
| Boiling Point | – |
| Density | 2.16 g/cm³ |
| Refractive Index | – |
| pH | Approx. 8.3 (on 1% solution). |
Interessing Links
- Codex Alimentarius (FAO/WHO) – Guidelines and standards for food additives and ingredients.
- European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) – For chemical information and regulations.
- European Food Information Council (EFIC)
- European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) – Information on the safety and uses of food additives and ingredients.
- PubChem – Sodium Bicarbonate – Chemical information by the National Library of Medicine of the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NIH-NCBI).
- Wikipedia – Sodium bicarbonate
Applications
Sodium bicarbonate is applied in various ways, for instance:
1. Food Industry
As a raising agent in bakery products and acidity regulator (as food additive E500(ii)).
2. Pharmaceutical Industry
As an antacid, in toothpastes and mouthwashes.
3. Cosmetic Industry
Deodorants, bath products, and skin care.
4. Agriculture
Addition in animal feed and as a pH buffer in soil.
5. Water Treatment
For pH regulation and neutralization of wastewater.
6. Fire Safety
In dry powder extinguishers (Class B and C fires).
7. Industrial Cleaning
As a mild abrasive, deodorizer, and grease dissolver.