We unleash your business potential by maximize the business innovation.
Send EmailAmmonium Polyphosphate, APP, 68333-79-9
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Chemical Name | Ammonium Polyphosphate |
| Chemical Formula | (NH₄PO₃)ₙ |
| Molecular Weight | Variable (polymer, depends on chain length) |
| Appearance | White powder or granules |
| CAS Number | 68333-79-9 |
| EC Number (EINECS) | 269-789-9 |
| Chemical Class | Inorganic polyphosphate salt |
| Odor | Odorless or faint ammonia-like odor |
| Physical State (20°C) | Solid (powder or granules) |
| Color | White to off-white |
Ammonium Polyphosphate (APP) is an inorganic salt consisting of long-chain polyphosphate polymers with ammonium ions. It is widely used as a halogen-free, environmentally friendly flame retardant due to its ability to form a protective char layer when exposed to heat. The chain length varies depending on the production process and intended application.
| Property | APP I (Short Chain) | APP II (Long Chain) |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | White powder | White powder or granules |
| Solubility in Water (20°C) | High (> 50 g/100 mL) | Low (< 1 g/100 mL) |
| Hygroscopicity | High | Low |
| Thermal Stability | Lower (< 200°C decomposition) | Higher (> 240°C decomposition) |
| pH (1% aqueous solution) | ~5.0 - 6.0 | ~5.5 - 6.5 |
| Density (bulk) | ~1.7 - 1.8 g/cm³ | ~1.8 - 1.9 g/cm³ |
| Particle Size | Fine powder (D50 ~15-20 µm) | Variable (powder to granular) |
| Melting Point | Decomposes before melting | Decomposes before melting |
| Property | Information |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | (NH₄PO₃)ₙ |
| CAS Number | 68333-79-9 |
| EC Number (EINECS) | 269-789-9 |
| Chemical Class | Inorganic polyphosphate salt |
| Molecular Weight | Variable (n = 20 to > 1000) |
| Structure | Linear chain of phosphate units with ammonium counterions |
| Phosphorus Content (P₂O₅) | ~70 - 72% |
| Nitrogen Content | ~12 - 14% |
| Decomposition Temperature | > 240°C (APP II) |
| Solubility in Water | Varies by type (low for APP II, high for APP I) |
| Solubility in Organic Solvents | Insoluble |
| Stability | Stable under normal storage conditions |
| Hygroscopicity | APP II: Low; APP I: High |
O O O O
|| || || ||
NH₄⁺ - O - P - O - P - O - P - O - P - O - NH₄⁺
| | | |
O⁻ O⁻ O⁻ O⁻
(Ammonium Polyphosphate - Linear Chain Structure)
Chain Length Representation:
APP I (Short Chain): n < 100 units
APP II (Long Chain): n > 1000 units
| Property | APP I (Short Chain) | APP II (Long Chain) |
|---|---|---|
| Chain Length | Short (n < 100) | Long (n > 1000) |
| Water Solubility | High | Low |
| Hygroscopicity | High | Low |
| Thermal Stability | Lower (decomposes < 200°C) | Higher (decomposes > 240°C) |
| Flame Retardancy | Moderate | High |
| Foaming Ability | High | Low |
| Preferred Application | Fertilizers, water treatment | Flame retardants, coatings |
| Processability | Easier to process | More challenging to process |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | APP is exposed to heat / fire |
| 2 | Thermal decomposition begins (> 240°C) |
| 3 | Ammonia (NH₃) and phosphoric acid (H₃PO₄) are released |
| 4 | Phosphoric acid reacts with organic materials (carbonization) |
| 5 | Protective char layer forms on material surface |
| 6 | Char layer acts as insulation: cuts off oxygen and heat transfer |
| 7 | Ammonia and water vapor dilute combustible gases |
| 8 | Combustion is slowed or completely prevented |
| 9 | Smoke emission is reduced significantly |
| 10 | Flame spread is minimized |
| Component | Role |
|---|---|
| APP (Acid Source) | Releases phosphoric acid upon heating, acts as dehydrating agent |
| Carbon Source (e.g., Pentaerythritol) | Reacts with acid to form carbonaceous char |
| Blowing Agent (e.g., Melamine) | Releases gas to expand char into foam structure |
| Result | Swollen, insulating char layer that protects substrate |
| Material | Application Description |
|---|---|
| Epoxy Resins | Flame retardant additive for electrical and construction applications |
| Polyurethane (PU) | Rigid and flexible foams; flame retardant modification |
| Polyester Resins | Unsaturated polyester composites, automotive parts |
| Polyethylene (PE) | Wire and cable insulation, packaging materials |
| Polypropylene (PP) | Automotive components, appliances, textiles |
| Polyamide (PA/Nylon) | Engineering plastics, electrical components |
| Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) | Electronics housings, automotive parts |
| Polycarbonate (PC) | Electrical and electronic applications |
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Intumescent Coatings | Swelling fire-retardant paints for structural steel protection |
| Building Materials | Fire-resistant panels, boards, and insulation materials |
| Fireproof Sealants | Sealants for fire-rated joints and penetrations |
| Roofing Materials | Fire-resistant roofing membranes and coatings |
| Cable Coatings | Flame retardant coatings for electrical cables |
| Concrete Additives | Fire resistance enhancement for concrete structures |
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Textile Treatment | Flame retardant treatment for fabrics, curtains, upholstery |
| Technical Textiles | Protective clothing, tent fabrics, industrial textiles |
| Paper Products | Fire-resistant paper, cardboard, and packaging materials |
| Wood Treatment | Impregnation for wood, plywood, and engineered wood products |
| Furniture | Flame retardant applications in furniture manufacturing |
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Slow-Release Fertilizers | Controlled-release phosphorus source for agriculture |
| Liquid Fertilizers | Water-soluble APP I in liquid fertilizer formulations |
| Granular Fertilizers | Coated or blended with other nutrients for soil application |
| Foliar Sprays | Phosphorus and nitrogen source for foliar application |
| Hydroponics | Nutrient source for hydroponic growing systems |
| Soil Amendment | Improves phosphorus availability in soils |
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Metal Ion Binding | Chelating agent for heavy metal ions in water treatment |
| Corrosion Inhibitor | Protective additive in industrial water systems |
| Boiler Water Treatment | Scale inhibition and corrosion protection |
| Cooling Water Systems | Anti-scaling and anti-corrosion agent |
| Detergent Additives | Builder and chelating agent in detergents |
| Adhesives and Sealants | Flame retardant component in adhesive formulations |
| Advantage | Description |
|---|---|
| Halogen-Free | No halogens (chlorine, bromine, fluorine, iodine) |
| Environmentally Friendly | Low toxic byproduct emissions during combustion |
| Low Smoke Emission | Significantly reduces smoke generation during fire |
| Non-Toxic | Low acute toxicity to humans and animals |
| Synergistic Effects | Can be combined with other flame retardants for enhanced performance |
| Cost-Effective | Economically viable compared to other flame retardants |
| Versatile | Applicable to wide range of polymers and materials |
| UV Resistant | Good resistance to ultraviolet degradation |
| Thermal Stability | Stable up to 240°C, suitable for processing at high temperatures |
| Sustainable | Compatible with modern sustainability and green chemistry principles |
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Oral LD50 (Rat) | > 10,000 mg/kg (estimated) |
| Dermal LD50 (Rabbit) | > 5,000 mg/kg (estimated) |
| Inhalation LC50 (Rat) | > 5 mg/L (estimated) |
| Skin Irritation | May cause mild irritation |
| Eye Irritation | May cause mechanical irritation |
| Skin Sensitization | Not expected to be a sensitizer |
| Carcinogenicity | Not classified as carcinogenic (IARC, NTP, OSHA) |
| Mutagenicity | Not classified as mutagenic |
| Reproductive Toxicity | No evidence of adverse effects |
| Environmental Toxicity | Low aquatic toxicity (EC50 > 100 mg/L) |
| Bioaccumulation | Not expected to bioaccumulate |
| Persistence | Readily biodegradable |
| Condition | Description |
|---|---|
| Dust Formation | Inhalation of fine powder may cause respiratory irritation |
| Skin Contact | May cause mild irritation; use protective gloves |
| Eye Contact | May cause mechanical irritation; use safety goggles |
| Moisture Sensitivity | APP I is highly hygroscopic; store in dry conditions |
| High Temperature | Decomposes above 240°C releasing ammonia and phosphorus oxides |
| Incompatibilities | Strong acids, strong oxidizing agents, strong bases |
| Worker Protection | Use local exhaust ventilation; wear dust mask if dust is generated |
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Storage Temperature | 15-25°C (cool, ambient temperature) |
| Storage Conditions | Cool, dry, well-ventilated area |
| Relative Humidity | < 50% for APP I; < 70% for APP II |
| Container Requirements | Tightly closed, original packaging |
| Protect From | Moisture, heat, strong acids, strong alkalis, strong oxidizing agents |
| Shelf Life | 12-24 months (in unopened original packaging, dry conditions) |
| Handling Precautions | Avoid dust generation; use local exhaust ventilation |
| Spill Cleanup | Sweep or vacuum; avoid generating dust; dispose properly |
| Disposal | In accordance with local, national, and international regulations |
| Temperature | Decomposition Products | Hazard |
|---|---|---|
| > 240°C | Ammonia (NH₃) and phosphoric acid (H₃PO₄) | Irritant gases |
| > 300°C | Phosphorus oxide (P₂O₅), water vapor | Respiratory irritant |
| > 400°C | Phosphorus oxides (P₂O₅, POₓ), ammonia | Toxic, irritant |
| > 600°C | Metal phosphates, residual carbon char | Solid residue |
Firefighting Recommendations:
Use water spray, foam, or dry powder extinguishers
Wear self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA)
Avoid contact with decomposition products
Prevent runoff from entering waterways
| Packaging Type | Quantity | Material |
|---|---|---|
| Kraft Bag with PE Inner Liner | 25 kg | Kraft paper + PE |
| Plastic Bucket with Lid | 20-25 kg | HDPE |
| Aluminum Foil Bag | 1-5 kg | Laminated aluminum |
| Plastic Bag (Multi-layer) | 25 kg | HDPE/LDPE |
| Big-Bag (FIBC) | 500 kg | Polypropylene woven fabric |
| Big-Bag (FIBC) | 1000 kg | Polypropylene woven fabric |
| Drum (Fiber/Plastic) | 50 kg | Fiberboard or HDPE |
| Custom Packaging | As per customer requirements | Various materials |
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| UN Number | Not regulated (not a hazardous material for transport) |
| 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 |
| Labeling Requirements | None required for transport |
| Region / Authority | Status |
|---|---|
| European Union (REACH) | Registered substance |
| USA (EPA TSCA) | Listed on TSCA inventory |
| China (MEE) | Approved for use in flame retardants |
| Japan (CSCL) | Listed on CSCL inventory |
| South Korea (K-REACH) | Registered substance |
| EFSA | Approved for use in food contact materials (limited) |
| EU Classification | Not classified as hazardous under CLP Regulation |
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Appearance | White powder or granules |
| P₂O₅ Content | ≥ 70.0% |
| Nitrogen Content | ≥ 12.0% |
| Solubility in Water | ≤ 1.0% |
| pH (1% aqueous) | 5.5 - 6.5 |
| Moisture Content (H₂O) | ≤ 0.5% |
| Particle Size (D50) | 15 - 20 µm (powder grade) |
| Thermal Stability | Stable up to 240°C |
| Degree of Polymerization | > 1000 units |
| Insoluble in Water | ≥ 99.5% |
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Product | Ammonium Polyphosphate (APP) |
| CAS Number | 68333-79-9 |
| EC Number | 269-789-9 |
| Appearance | White powder or granules |
| Chemical Class | Inorganic polyphosphate |
| Primary Function | Halogen-free flame retardant, fertilizer, water treatment |
| Phosphorus Content | ~70 - 72% P₂O₅ |
| Nitrogen Content | ~12 - 14% |
1. APP I vs APP II Selection: Choose APP I (short chain) for fertilizers and water treatment applications due to high solubility. Choose APP II (long chain) for flame retardant applications due to low solubility and high thermal stability.
2. Thermal Stability: APP II remains stable up to 240°C; above this temperature, decomposition begins with release of ammonia and phosphoric acid.
3. Moisture Sensitivity: APP I is highly hygroscopic and must be stored in sealed containers with low humidity. APP II is less sensitive but should still be protected from moisture.
4. Halogen-Free: Contains no halogens; produces low toxic byproducts compared to halogenated flame retardants. Environmentally preferred.
5. Char Formation: The protective char layer is critical for flame retardant action; it insulates the material and cuts off oxygen supply.
6. Intumescent Systems: APP works best in combination with carbon sources (e.g., pentaerythritol) and blowing agents (e.g., melamine) for intumescent flame retardancy.
7. Application Versatility: Suitable for plastics (PP, PE, PA, PU, epoxy, polyester), coatings, textiles, paper, wood, fertilizers, and water treatment.
8. Environmental Benefits: Low toxicity, environmentally friendly, non-bioaccumulative, and complies with modern flame retardant regulations.
9. Decomposition Byproducts: At high temperatures (> 240°C), ammonia and phosphorus oxides are released; use appropriate ventilation and respiratory protection.
10. Occupational Safety: Use dust masks, safety goggles, and protective gloves when handling to avoid irritation from dust.
11. Regulatory Compliance: Ensure compliance with REACH, TSCA, and other regional regulations for the intended application.
12. Fire Protection: APP is not combustible but contributes to fire resistance of treated materials. It should not be used as a standalone fire suppressant.
13. Food Contact: Limited approval for food contact materials; check regional regulations before using in food packaging.
14. Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry place. Avoid exposure to moisture, acids, alkalis, and oxidizing agents.
15. Shelf Life: Up to 24 months in unopened, properly sealed packaging. Monitor for caking or moisture absorption over time.
IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER: This Technical Data Sheet (TDS) is for informational purposes only and is prepared based on available technical data. The user is responsible for determining the suitability of the product for their specific application and for complying with all local, national, and international regulations. For complete safety, storage, use, handling, disposal, and regulatory compliance information, refer to the official Safety Data Sheet (SDS/MSDS) provided by the manufacturer/supplier. This document is not a substitute for professional or medical advice.