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Send EmailSodium Hexametaphosphate, Sodium Polymetaphosphate, Sodium Polyphosphate, Hexasodium Metaphosphate, E452i, SHMP, 10124-56-8
SODIUM HEXAMETAPHOSPHATE (SHMP)
PRODUCT IDENTIFIER INFORMATION
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Sodium Hexametaphosphate (SHMP) |
| Chemical Name (IUPAC) | Sodium Polymetaphosphate |
| CAS Number | 10124-56-8 |
| EC Number (EINECS) | 233-343-1 |
| Food Additive Code | E452(i) |
| Molecular Formula | (NaPO3)n (n=6-20, typically n=6 hexamer) |
| Molecular Weight | Variable (~612 g/mol for hexamer); polymer |
SECTION 1: CHEMICAL IDENTITY AND DESCRIPTION
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Chemical Name (IUPAC) | Sodium Polymetaphosphate |
| Systematic Name | Metaphosphoric Acid, Sodium Salt |
| Synonyms | Sodium Hexametaphosphate, Sodium Polymetaphosphate, Graham's Salt, Calgon, SHMP, Sodium Polyphosphate, Hexasodium Metaphosphate |
| Abbreviations | SHMP |
| CAS Number | 10124-56-8 |
| EC Number (EINECS) | 233-343-1 |
| Food Additive Code | E452(i) |
| INS Number | 452(i) |
| Molecular Formula | (NaPO3)n (n=6-20; commercial product is a polymer mixture) |
| Chemical Class | Inorganic polyphosphate salt (polymetaphosphate) |
| Physical State (20°C) | Solid (white, glassy, granules, or powder) |
| Odor | Odorless |
| Taste | Slightly alkaline, characteristic |
SECTION 2: PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES
| Property | Value | Test Method |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | White, glassy, granules, or powder | Visual |
| Odor | Odorless | Olfactometric |
| Taste | Slightly alkaline, characteristic | Sensory |
| pH (1% solution, 25°C) | 6.0 – 7.5 (near neutral) | pH Meter |
| pH (10% solution, 25°C) | 5.8 – 7.3 | pH Meter |
| Solubility in Water (25°C) | Very high; dissolves easily and completely | Gravimetric |
| Density (25°C) | ~2.48 g/cm3 | ASTM D4052 |
| Melting Point | ~628°C (with decomposition) | DSC |
| Boiling Point | Not applicable (decomposes) | - |
| Hygroscopicity | High (absorbs moisture; cakes in humid environment) | Visual |
| Flash Point | Non-flammable | Not applicable |
| Stability | Stable under normal conditions; protect from moisture |
SECTION 3: CHEMICAL PROPERTIES AND REACTIVITY
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Chemical Character | Polymeric phosphate salt; strong chelating agent; water softener; dispersing agent |
| Stability | Stable under normal conditions |
| Hydrolysis | Slowly hydrolyzes to orthophosphate and short-chain phosphates in aqueous solution; accelerated by acidic pH and temperature |
| Decomposition Products (Heating) | Above 628°C: Na2O, P2O5, phosphorus oxides |
| Chelation | Strongly binds Ca2+, Mg2+, Fe2+/Fe3+ and heavy metal ions; removes water hardness |
| Incompatible Materials | Strong oxidizing agents, strong acids |
| Reaction with Acids | Converts to orthophosphates via acidic hydrolysis; chelating efficacy decreases |
| Hazardous Polymerization | Does not occur |
SECTION 4: PRODUCTION METHOD
| Stage | Process | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Raw Material | Monosodium phosphate (NaH2PO4) or Disodium phosphate (Na2HPO4) |
| 2 | Heating | Heated at 500-600°C |
| 3 | Polymerization | Polymerization occurs at high temperature; long-chain polyphosphate structures formed |
| 4 | Cooling | Rapid cooling to obtain glassy structure |
| 5 | Forming | Glassy mass crushed into granules or milled into powder form |
SECTION 5: PHOSPHATE TYPES COMPARISON
| Property | SHMP (E452i) | STPP (E451i) | TSPP (E450iii) | DSP (E339ii) | MSP (E339i) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Compound | Sodium Hexametaphosphate | Sodium Tripolyphosphate | Tetrasodium Pyrophosphate | Disodium Phosphate | Monosodium Phosphate |
| Formula | (NaPO3)n | Na5P3O10 | Na4P2O7 | Na2HPO4 | NaH2PO4 |
| P2O5 Content | ~60-71% | ~57% | ~53% | ~50% | ~59% |
| pH (1% solution) | 6.0-7.5 | 9.5-10.0 | 9.8-10.5 | 8.5-9.5 | 4.2-4.8 |
| Chelating Strength | Medium-High | Very High | High | Low | None |
| Solubility | Very high | ~150 g/L | ~70 g/L | ~100 g/L | ~850 g/L |
| Primary Use | Water treatment, food, dispersion | Detergent, food, water treatment | Toothpaste, detergent, food | Food, buffer | Food, acidity regulator |
SECTION 6: FUNCTIONAL PROPERTIES AND MECHANISM OF ACTION
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Strong Chelation | Binds metal ions (Ca2+, Mg2+, Fe2+/Fe3+); removes water hardness; prevents scale formation |
| Water Softener | Softens water by binding calcium and magnesium ions in hard water; extends pipe and equipment life |
| Dispersing Agent | Ensures homogeneous distribution of pigments, fibers, and particles in liquid |
| Stabilizer / Emulsifier | Provides homogeneous structure and texture in foods (E452i); prevents phase separation |
| Water Holding Capacity | Increases water retention in processed meat products; improves texture; reduces cooking loss |
| Corrosion Inhibitor | Prevents corrosion by forming protective film layer on metal surfaces |
| Flotation Agent | Used for selective separation of minerals in mining processing |
| pH Buffer | Provides buffering in sensitive formulations with near-neutral pH |
SECTION 7: PRIMARY APPLICATION AREAS
| Sector / Application | Use | Typical Concentration / Dosage |
|---|---|---|
| Water Treatment | Water softening, scale prevention, corrosion control | 5 – 20 mg/L |
| Water Treatment - Cooling Tower | Scale formation and corrosion prevention | 10 – 50 mg/L |
| Detergent / Cleaning Products | Chelator, cleaning performance enhancer | 1 – 5% |
| Food - Processed Meat (E452i) | Water retention, texture improver, stabilizer | 0.1 – 0.5% |
| Food - Dairy Products | Emulsifier, stabilizer | 0.1 – 0.5% |
| Food - Beverages | Stabilizer, anti-clouding agent | 0.05 – 0.2% |
| Food - Canned Seafood | Texture preservative | 0.1 – 0.3% |
| Textile | Dispersing agent, dyeing aid, metal ion chelator | 0.2 – 2.0% |
| Paper Industry | Fiber and filler distribution improver | 0.2 – 2.0% |
| Mining/Metal Processing | Flotation agent, corrosion inhibitor, surface treatment | 0.1 – 1.0% |
| Ceramics | Dispersing agent, chelator | 0.2 – 2.0% |
| Paint and Coatings | Pigment dispersion | 0.5 – 2.0% |
SECTION 8: QUALITY SPECIFICATIONS (FOOD GRADE - E452i)
| Parameter | Specification | Test Method |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | White, glassy, granules, or powder | Visual |
| Odor | Odorless | Olfactometric |
| P2O5 Content | 60.0 – 71.0% | Gravimetric (Phosphomolybdate) |
| Loss on Drying (105°C, 2 hours) | ≤ 1.0% | Gravimetric |
| pH (1% solution, 25°C) | 6.0 – 7.5 | pH Meter |
| Water Insoluble Matter | ≤ 0.1% | Gravimetric |
| Fluoride (F-) | ≤ 10 ppm | Ion Selective Electrode |
| Chloride (Cl-) | ≤ 0.05% | Argentometric |
| Sulfate (SO4 2-) | ≤ 0.05% | Turbidimetric |
| Heavy Metals (as Pb) | ≤ 10 ppm | ICP-MS |
| Lead (Pb) | ≤ 2 ppm | ICP-MS |
| Arsenic (As) | ≤ 3 ppm | ICP-MS |
| Mercury (Hg) | ≤ 1 ppm | ICP-MS |
| Cadmium (Cd) | ≤ 1 ppm | ICP-MS |
| Iron (Fe) | ≤ 50 ppm | AAS / Colorimetric |
| Total Microbial Count | ≤ 1,000 CFU/g | ISO 4833 |
| Yeast and Mold | ≤ 100 CFU/g | ISO 21527 |
| E. coli | Negative in 10g | ISO 16649 |
| Salmonella spp. | Negative in 25g | ISO 6579 |
SECTION 9: MICROBIOLOGICAL SPECIFICATIONS
| Parameter | Specification | Test Method |
|---|---|---|
| Total Mesophilic Aerobic Bacteria | ≤ 1,000 CFU/g | ISO 4833 |
| Yeast and Mold | ≤ 100 CFU/g | ISO 21527 |
| Salmonella spp. | Negative in 25g | ISO 6579 |
| Escherichia coli | Negative in 10g | ISO 16649 |
| Staphylococcus aureus | Negative in 1g | ISO 6888 |
| Pseudomonas aeruginosa | Negative in 1g | ISO 16266 |
SECTION 10: TOXICOLOGICAL PROFILE
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Acute Oral Toxicity (LD50, Rat) | > 3,000 mg/kg (low toxicity) |
| Acute Dermal Toxicity (LD50, Rabbit) | > 2,000 mg/kg |
| Skin Irritation | Mild irritant |
| Eye Irritation | Irritant |
| Respiratory Irritation | Inhalation of dust may cause mechanical irritation |
| Skin Sensitization | Not sensitizing |
| Carcinogenicity | Not classified (IARC, NTP) |
| Mutagenicity | Negative in in vitro tests |
| Reproductive Toxicity | No known adverse effects |
| Chronic Toxicity | Gastrointestinal discomfort at high doses |
| ADI (Total Phosphate) | 0-70 mg/kg body weight/day (JECFA) |
| GRAS Status | Recognized as GRAS by FDA |
SECTION 11: GHS CLASSIFICATION AND LABELING
GHS Classification (compliant with 1272/2008/EC):
| Hazard Class | Category | H-Statement |
|---|---|---|
| Skin Irritation | Category 2 | H315 |
| Serious Eye Damage/Irritation | Category 2 | H319 |
| Specific Target Organ Toxicity (STOT - SE) | Category 3 | H335 |
Signal Word: WARNING
Hazard Pictograms: GHS07 (Exclamation Mark)
Hazard Statements (H-Codes):
| Code | Statement |
|---|---|
| H315 | Causes skin irritation |
| H319 | Causes serious eye irritation |
| H335 | May cause respiratory irritation |
SECTION 12: PRECAUTIONARY STATEMENTS (P-CODES)
| Code | Statement |
|---|---|
| P261 | Avoid breathing dust |
| P264 | Wash hands thoroughly after handling |
| P271 | Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area |
| P280 | Wear protective gloves/eye protection/face protection |
| P302+P352 | IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of water and soap |
| P304+P340 | IF INHALED: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing |
| P305+P351+P338 | IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses if present |
| P312 | Call a POISON CENTER/doctor if you feel unwell |
| P403+P233 | Store in a well-ventilated place. Keep container tightly closed |
| P501 | Dispose of contents/container to an approved waste disposal facility |
SECTION 13: FIRST AID MEASURES
| Exposure Route | Action to Take |
|---|---|
| Inhalation | Move to fresh air. Seek medical attention if respiratory irritation persists. |
| Skin Contact | Wash with plenty of water and soap for at least 15 minutes. Seek medical attention if irritation persists. |
| Eye Contact | Rinse immediately with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes. Remove contact lenses if present. Seek medical attention. |
| Ingestion | Rinse mouth with water. Drink plenty of water. Seek medical attention if you feel unwell. |
SECTION 14: FIREFIGHTING MEASURES
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Fire Hazard | Non-flammable |
| Hazards During Fire | Above 628°C: Na2O, P2O5, phosphorus oxides |
| Suitable Extinguishing Media | Any extinguishing media appropriate for surrounding fire (water, CO2, dry chemical powder, foam) |
| Special Protective Equipment | Self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), full protective clothing |
| Special Precautions | Prevent firefighting water from entering the environment |
SECTION 15: STORAGE AND SHELF LIFE
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Storage Conditions | Cool (15-25°C), dry, well-ventilated area; away from moisture |
| Container Requirements | Tightly closed, moisture-proof containers; original packaging |
| Keep Away From | Moisture (hygroscopic), direct sunlight, strong oxidizing agents, strong acids |
| Shelf Life | 24 months (unopened original packaging under appropriate storage conditions) |
| Stability Note | Hygroscopic; cakes in humid environment; store in airtight containers |
SECTION 16: PACKAGING OPTIONS
| Packaging Type | Quantity | Material |
|---|---|---|
| Kraft bag with PE inner liner | 25 kg | Kraft paper + PE |
| PP woven bag with PE inner liner | 25 kg | PP woven + PE |
| Big-Bag | 500-1000 kg | Polypropylene (with PE inner liner) |
| Plastic pail | 25 kg | HDPE |
| Plastic drum | 50 kg | HDPE |
SECTION 17: TRANSPORTATION INFORMATION
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| UN Number | Not regulated (not hazardous) |
| Hazard Class | Not applicable |
| Packing Group | Not applicable |
| ADR/RID | Not regulated |
| IMDG Code | Not regulated |
| IATA (Air) | Not regulated |
| Marine Pollutant | No |
| Transport Temperature | Ambient (15-25°C); protect from moisture |
SECTION 18: ACCIDENTAL RELEASE AND CLEANUP
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Personal Protection | Nitrile gloves, safety goggles, dust mask (N95) |
| Cleanup Methods | Sweep up or vacuum dry. Collect in closed, labeled containers. Avoid washing with water (creates slippery surface). |
| Environmental Precautions | Prevent entry into drains, soil, and surface water. |
| Waste Disposal | According to local regulations; dispose at licensed disposal facility. |
SECTION 19: REGULATORY STATUS
| Region / Authority | Status |
|---|---|
| European Union | Food additive E452(i); approved for use quantum satis |
| USA (FDA) | GRAS; approved as food additive, water treatment, and detergent component |
| JECFA (FAO/WHO) | ADI: 0-70 mg/kg body weight/day (as total phosphate) |
| Codex Alimentarius | Listed in GSFA; food additive INS 452(i) |
| Turkey | Approved under Turkish Food Codex Regulation on Food Additives |
| REACH | Subject to registration (if applicable) |
| WGK (Germany) | 1 (low hazard to water) |
| Halal | Available |
| Kosher | Available |
| Vegetarian/Vegan | Suitable (inorganic source) |
SECTION 20: OTHER NAMES AND SYNONYMS
| Type | Name |
|---|---|
| Common Names | Sodium Hexametaphosphate, Sodium Polymetaphosphate, Graham's Salt, Calgon, SHMP |
| Chemical Names | Metaphosphoric Acid, Sodium Salt; Polymetaphosphoric Acid, Sodium Salt |
| Food Additive Code | E452(i), INS 452(i) |
| CAS Number | 10124-56-8 |
| EC Number | 233-343-1 |
SECTION 21: VARIANTS (BY FORM)
| Form | Description | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
| Glassy | Transparent, glass-like structure; rapid dissolution | Industrial applications, water treatment |
| Granular | Easier to dose; non-dusting | Water treatment, detergent sector |
| Powder | Fine powder; fast dissolving | Food additive, laboratory applications |
| By Polymer Chain Length | Varying properties with different n values (6-20) | Specific chelation and dispersion requirements |
SECTION 22: SUMMARY TABLE
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Product | Sodium Hexametaphosphate (SHMP) |
| CAS Number | 10124-56-8 |
| Food Additive Code | E452(i) |
| Molecular Formula | (NaPO3)n (n=6-20) |
| Molecular Weight | Variable (~612 g/mol hexamer) |
| Appearance | White, glassy, granules, or powder |
| pH (1% solution) | 6.0 – 7.5 |
| Solubility in Water | Very high; completely soluble |
| Primary Function | Chelating agent, water softener, dispersing agent, stabilizer, corrosion inhibitor |
| Shelf Life | 24 months |
| GHS Signal Word | Warning |
SECTION 23: CRITICAL WARNINGS AND BEST PRACTICES
CRITICAL WARNINGS:
-
High Hygroscopicity: Absorbs moisture and cakes; store in tightly closed, moisture-proof containers. Close immediately after opening.
-
Acidic Hydrolysis: Hydrolyzes to orthophosphates in acidic environment (pH <4); chelating efficacy decreases. Use caution in acidic formulations.
-
Aqueous Solution Stability: Hydrolyzes over time in aqueous solutions; prepare fresh solution and use within 24-48 hours.
-
Metal Containers: Do not store in metal containers as it binds metal ions; use HDPE, PP, or stainless steel (316L) containers.
-
Skin and Eye Irritation: Dust and solution may cause skin and eye irritation. Use protective equipment.
BEST PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS:
-
Solution Preparation: Very high solubility; dissolves quickly even in cold water. Add with stirring to prevent lumping.
-
Water Treatment Dosage: 5-20 mg/L depending on water hardness; overdosing may cause phosphate residue.
-
Food Applications: Use at 0.1-0.5% in processed meat products; check legal limits.
-
Detergent Formulation: Use at 1-5% as chelator and water softener; pay attention to moisture control.
-
Storage: Strictly protect from moisture; store with desiccants such as silica gel.
LEGAL DISCLAIMER:
The information provided in this document is presented in good faith based on our current knowledge and experience; however, since all usage conditions are beyond our control, it does not constitute a binding specification or warranty. This Technical Data Sheet is for informational purposes only. Users are obligated to test the suitability for their own applications. For complete safety, storage, handling, transportation, disposal, and regulatory compliance information, refer to the official Safety Data Sheet (SDS/MSDS) provided by the manufacturer/supplier.
