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Sodium Citrate, Trisodium Citrate Anhydrous, Trisodium Citrate Anhydrous Dihydrate, Lemon Salt, E331, 68-04-2, 6132-04-3

Sodium Citrate, Trisodium Citrate Anhydrous, Trisodium Citrate Anhydrous Dihydrate, Lemon Salt, E331, 68-04-2, 6132-04-3

TRISODIUM CITRATE (SODIUM CITRATE)
PRODUCT IDENTIFICATION INFORMATION

Parameter Information
Product Name Trisodium Citrate
Chemical Name (IUPAC) Trisodium 2-hydroxypropane-1,2,3-tricarboxylate
Synonyms (Turkish) Sodyum Sitrat, Limon Tuzu, Eritme Tuzu, Sitrat
Synonyms (English) Trisodium Citrate, Sodium Citrate, Citric Acid Trisodium Salt, Lemon Salt, Melting Salt
CAS Numbers 68-04-2 (Anhydrous), 6132-04-3 (Dihydrate)
EC Number (EINECS) 200-675-3
E Number E331
Molecular Formula Na₃C₆H₅O₇·nH₂O
Molecular Weight 258.06 g/mol (Anhydrous) / 294.10 g/mol (Dihydrate)
Appearance Colorless, white crystalline powder; odorless

CHEMICAL STRUCTURE

Trisodium Citrate

CH₂—COO⁻Na⁺
|
HO—C—COO⁻Na⁺
|
CH₂—COO⁻Na⁺

Molecular Formula: Na₃C₆H₅O₇·nH₂O
SMILES: [Na+].[Na+].[Na+].OC@@(CC([O-])=O)C([O-])=O
InChI: InChI=1S/C6H8O7.3Na/c7-3(8)1-6(13,5(11)12)2-4(9)10;;;/h13H,1-2H2,(H,7,8)(H,9,10)(H,11,12);;;/q;3*+1/p-3
InChIKey: HRXKRNGNAMMEHJ-UHFFFAOYSA-K
Structure: Trisodium salt of citric acid; Three sodium ions (Na⁺) with citrate anion; Tribasic salt; Strong buffering capacity; Can form chelates with metal ions.

SECTION 1: CHEMICAL IDENTITY AND DESCRIPTION

Parameter Information
Product Name Trisodium Citrate
Chemical Name (IUPAC) Trisodium 2-hydroxypropane-1,2,3-tricarboxylate
Synonyms (Turkish) Sodyum Sitrat, Limon Tuzu, Eritme Tuzu, Sitrat
Synonyms (English) Trisodium Citrate, Sodium Citrate, Citric Acid Trisodium Salt, Lemon Salt, Melting Salt
CAS Numbers 68-04-2 (Anhydrous), 6132-04-3 (Dihydrate)
EC Number (EINECS) 200-675-3
E Number E331
Molecular Formula Na₃C₆H₅O₇·nH₂O
Molecular Weight 258.06 g/mol (Anhydrous) / 294.10 g/mol (Dihydrate)
Chemical Class Organic salt; Sodium salt; Citrate; Tribasic salt
Physical State (20°C) Solid (crystalline powder)
Odor Odorless
Color Colorless, white
Taste Cooling, salty, slightly sour

SECTION 2: PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES

Property Anhydrous Dihydrate Test Method / Note
Appearance White, crystalline powder Colorless to white crystals Visual
Odor Odorless Odorless Olfactometric
Molecular Weight 258.06 g/mol 294.10 g/mol Calculated
Density (20°C) 1.76 g/cm³ ~1.70 g/cm³ ASTM D4052
Melting Point >150°C (decomposes) ~150°C (loses water) DSC
pH (5% Solution, 20°C) 7.5 – 9.0 (avg. 8.5) 7.5 – 9.0 (avg. 8.5) pH Meter
Solubility in Water (20°C) ~72 g/100 mL ~72 g/100 mL General Method
Solubility in Water (Temperature Dependence) Increases with temperature Increases with temperature
Solubility in Ethanol Practically insoluble Practically insoluble General Method
Hygroscopicity Low Low
Stability Stable under normal conditions Stable under normal conditions
Decomposition (Heating) >150°C (loss of water and decomposition) ~150°C (loss of water)
Porosity ~15% (for carrier applications)

SECTION 3: TRISODIUM CITRATE FORMS

Form Formula CAS Number Molecular Weight Appearance Primary Use
Anhydrous Na₃C₆H₅O₇ 68-04-2 258.06 g/mol White crystalline powder Carrier, stabilizer, industrial applications
Dihydrate Na₃C₆H₅O₇·2H₂O 6132-04-3 294.10 g/mol Colorless crystals Cheese production (emulsifier), food
Monohydrate Na₃C₆H₅O₇·H₂O Variable 276.09 g/mol White crystalline powder Specialty applications

SECTION 4: CHEMICAL PROPERTIES AND REACTIVITY

Parameter Information
Chemical Character Tribasic organic salt; Weak base (conjugate base); Strong buffering capacity; Chelating agent
Stability Stable under normal conditions; Decomposes above 150°C losing water; Not hygroscopic
Reactivity Forms complexes with metal ions (Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺, Fe²⁺, Pb²⁺); Reacts with acids to form citric acid; Incompatible with oxidizing and reducing agents
Incompatible Materials Strong acids (citric acid formation), strong oxidizing agents, strong reducing agents
Polymerization Does not polymerize
Decomposition Products (Heating) Sodium carbonate, carbon dioxide, water (at high temperatures)
Acid Reaction Na₃C₆H₅O₇ + 3HCl → C₆H₈O₇ (citric acid) + 3NaCl
Complex Formation Forms stable chelates with Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺, Fe²⁺ (citrate complexes)
Buffering Effective buffer in pH 3-6 range; Regulates blood and urine pH
Hydrolysis Fully ionizes in water to Na⁺ and citrate ions
Heat of Solution Slightly exothermic (dissolution)

SECTION 5: PRODUCTION METHODS

Method 1: Citric Acid Neutralization

Reaction: C₆H₈O₇ (citric acid) + 3NaOH → Na₃C₆H₅O₇ + 3H₂O

Description: Citric acid is neutralized with sodium hydroxide (NaOH) or sodium carbonate (Na₂CO₃); The solution is crystallized; Anhydrous or dihydrate forms are obtained by controlling crystallization conditions. Most common industrial method.

Method 2: Fermentation and Neutralization

Process: Sugar → Citric acid (fermentation) → Neutralization → Trisodium citrate

Description: Sugar is fermented with Aspergillus niger to produce citric acid; Citric acid is neutralized with sodium hydroxide; Purification and crystallization yield the product.

Method 3: Dihydrate Production

Process: Trisodium citrate solution → Controlled crystallization → Dihydrate crystals

Description: Trisodium citrate solution is crystallized under specific temperature and concentration conditions; Dihydrate form (Na₃C₆H₅O₇·2H₂O) is obtained; Used in food and cheese production.

Method 4: Anhydrous Production

Process: Dihydrate → Heating (120-150°C) → Anhydrous

Description: Dihydrate form is heated at 120-150°C to remove water; Anhydrous form (Na₃C₆H₅O₇) is obtained; Used in industrial and pharmaceutical applications.

SECTION 6: FUNCTIONAL PROPERTIES AND MECHANISM OF ACTION

Property Description
Buffering Agent Effective buffer in pH 3-6 range; Neutralizes excess acid in blood and urine; pH regulator in pharmaceutical formulations
Chelating Agent Forms stable complexes with metal ions (Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺, Fe²⁺, Pb²⁺); Prevents coagulation in blood transfusions (binds calcium ions); Softens water hardness
Emulsifier Acts as emulsifier in oil-water systems; Provides homogeneous distribution of fat and water in cheese production; Improves texture and consistency in food products
Acidity Regulator Controls pH in food products; Regulates taste and acidity profiles; Enhances preservative effectiveness
Anticoagulant Prevents clotting in blood samples and transfusions; Binds Ca²⁺ ions to inhibit coagulation cascade
Moisture Control / Anti-Caking Prevents powder caking; Extends shelf life; Improves flowability of powder products
Enzymatic Browning Inhibitor Prevents enzymatic browning in potatoes and vegetables; Inhibits polyphenol oxidase enzyme; Maintains color stability
Alkalizing Agent Used in treatment of metabolic acidosis; Neutralizes excess acid in blood and urine
Carrier Substance Anhydrous form is ~15% porous; Used as carrier for liquid absorption applications

SECTION 7: MAIN APPLICATION AREAS

Industry / Application Function Typical Use
Food Industry Acidity regulator, emulsifier, preservative Cheese (dihydrate form in sliced cheese), jam, ice cream, jelly, confectionery; Carbonated beverages, wine, energy drinks; Anti-browning agent for potatoes and vegetables; Baby food; Medium-moisture cooked foods
Pharmaceutical & Medical Anticoagulant, buffering, alkalizing agent Blood transfusions (anti-clotting); pH regulator in drug formulations; Treatment of metabolic acidosis; Excipient in diuretics, expectorants, and eye drops
Industrial Use Detergent, chelating agent, cleaning Phosphate-free detergent formulations; Cyanide-free electroplating; Antifreeze (glycol thermal stabilization); Magnesium-based cleaning systems
Cosmetics Stability enhancer, preservative, pH regulator Skin care products; Hair care products; pH buffering
Water Treatment Chelating agent, scale inhibitor Water softening; Scale prevention; Deposit control in piping systems
Photography Auxiliary chemical Developing baths; Fixing solutions

SECTION 8: QUALITY SPECIFICATIONS

Parameter Food Grade (E331) Pharmaceutical Grade (USP/EP) Technical Grade Test Method
Appearance White crystalline powder White crystalline powder White crystalline powder Visual
Assay (Na₃C₆H₅O₇) ≥ 99.0% ≥ 99.5% ≥ 98.0% Titrimetric
pH (5% Solution) 7.5 – 9.0 7.5 – 9.0 7.5 – 9.0 pH Meter
Moisture Content ≤ 1.0% (anhydrous) ≤ 1.0% (anhydrous) ≤ 2.0% (anhydrous) Gravimetric
Heavy Metals (as Pb) ≤ 10 ppm ≤ 5 ppm ≤ 20 ppm AAS / ICP
Arsenic (As) ≤ 3 ppm ≤ 1 ppm ≤ 5 ppm AAS / ICP
Iron (Fe) ≤ 10 ppm ≤ 5 ppm ≤ 20 ppm AAS / ICP
Lead (Pb) ≤ 5 ppm ≤ 2 ppm ≤ 10 ppm AAS / ICP
Sulfate (SO₄) ≤ 0.01% ≤ 0.01% ≤ 0.05% Gravimetric
Chloride (Cl) ≤ 0.01% ≤ 0.01% ≤ 0.05% Titrimetric
Oxalate (C₂O₄) ≤ 0.01% ≤ 0.005% Titrimetric
Particle Size Customer requirement Customer requirement Customer requirement Sieve / Laser
Water (Crystallization) Karl Fischer

SECTION 9: TOXICOLOGICAL PROFILE

Parameter Value
Acute Oral Toxicity (LD50, Rat) ~ 6,000 – 10,000 mg/kg (very low toxicity)
Acute Dermal Toxicity Non-irritating
Acute Inhalation Toxicity Mild irritation (dust)
Skin Irritation Non-irritating
Eye Irritation Mildly irritating (dust)
Chronic Toxicity Non-toxic; GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) status
Carcinogenicity Not classified as carcinogenic
Mutagenicity Not mutagenic
Reproductive Toxicity Not reproductive toxic
Target Organs None (non-toxic)
Occupational Exposure Limit (8h TWA) Not established (non-hazardous dust)
Special Toxicity Note Non-toxic; FDA GRAS status; WHO JECFA approved; Food additive E331; High doses may cause mild laxative effect; Not an allergen; Gluten-free

SECTION 10: GHS CLASSIFICATION AND LABELING

GHS Classification (in accordance with CLP and UN GHS):

Hazard Class Category H-Statement
Not classified as hazardous

SIGNAL WORD: NONE (not classified as hazardous)

Hazard Pictograms: NONE

Hazard Statements (H-Codes): Not classified as hazardous under GHS regulations.

NFPA 704 Hazard Classification:

Health Flammability Reactivity Special
1 0 0 -
(Slight health hazard – dust) (Will not burn) (Stable) (None)

SECTION 11: PRECAUTIONARY STATEMENTS (P-CODES)

Code Statement
P261 Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapors/spray
P264 Wash hands thoroughly after handling
P271 Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area
P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection
P302+P352 IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of soap and water
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 and continue rinsing
P312 Call a POISON CENTER/doctor if you feel unwell
P332+P313 If skin irritation occurs: Get medical advice/attention
P337+P313 If eye irritation persists: Get medical advice/attention
P362+P364 Take off contaminated clothing and wash it before reuse
P403+P233 Store in a well-ventilated place. Keep container tightly closed
P501 Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local/regional/national/international regulations

SECTION 12: FIRST AID MEASURES

Exposure Route Action to Take
Inhalation Remove to fresh air immediately. If respiratory irritation develops (dust inhalation), seek medical attention.
Skin Contact Wash with plenty of soap and water. If irritation persists, get medical attention.
Eye Contact Rinse immediately with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes. Keep eyelids open. Remove contact lenses if present. If irritation persists, seek medical attention.
Ingestion Rinse mouth. Drink plenty of water. Generally non-toxic. If large quantities are ingested (laxative effect) and symptoms occur, seek medical attention.

SECTION 13: FIREFIGHTING MEASURES

Parameter Information
Fire Hazard Non-combustible. Does not burn.
Hazards Arising from Fire May release toxic sodium oxide fumes and carbon oxides at high temperatures
Suitable Extinguishing Media Use extinguishing media suitable for surrounding fire. Water spray, CO₂, dry chemical powder, foam.
Unsuitable Extinguishing Media None
Special Protective Equipment Self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), full protective clothing (for surrounding fire).
Special Precautions Prevent dust from entering sewers and waterways.

SECTION 14: STORAGE AND SHELF LIFE

Parameter Anhydrous Dihydrate
Storage Conditions Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area; Protect from moisture and direct sunlight Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area; Protect from moisture and direct sunlight
Container Requirements Tightly closed, moisture-proof containers (PE bags, fiber drums) Tightly closed, moisture-proof containers (PE bags, fiber drums)
Materials to Protect From Moisture, strong acids, strong oxidizing agents Moisture, strong acids, strong oxidizing agents, high temperature (loses crystal water)
Shelf Life 24 – 48 months (in unopened original packaging, under proper storage conditions) 24 – 48 months (in unopened original packaging, under proper storage conditions)
Stability Note Stable under normal conditions; Not hygroscopic; Keep container tightly closed after opening Stable under normal conditions; Not hygroscopic; Converts to anhydrous at high temperature (loss of crystal water)
Special Storage Requirements Store in a dry, well-ventilated warehouse; Store separately from acids Store in a dry, well-ventilated warehouse; Store separately from acids; Store at <30°C

SECTION 15: PACKAGING OPTIONS

Packaging Type Quantity Material
Multi-layer Paper Bag 10 kg, 20 kg, 25 kg PE-lined kraft paper bag (moisture-proof)
Plastic Bag 5 kg, 10 kg, 25 kg PE bag (inner-lined, sealed, moisture-proof)
Fiber Drum 20 kg, 25 kg PE-lined fiberboard drum
Plastic Drum 25 kg, 50 kg HDPE / Polypropylene (moisture-proof)
FIBC / Big Bag 500 kg, 1000 kg PE-lined, moisture-resistant PP woven bag
Small Pack 1 kg, 5 kg Foil-lined plastic bags (laboratory/sample)

SECTION 16: TRANSPORT INFORMATION

Parameter Information
UN Number Not regulated (non-hazardous)
Hazard Class Not applicable
Packing Group Not applicable
ADR/RID Not regulated
IMDG Code Not regulated (non-hazardous)
IATA (Air) Not regulated (non-hazardous)
Marine Pollutant No
Transport Temperature Ambient temperature; Protect from moisture.

SECTION 17: REGULATORY STATUS

Region / Authority Status
European Union REACH registered; Food additive E331; Pharmaceutical excipient (Ph.Eur.); Cosmetic ingredient approved
USA (TSCA) Listed (TSCA Inventory)
USA (FDA) GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) – 21 CFR 184.1751; Food additive; Pharmaceutical excipient (USP-NF)
USA (EPA) Not regulated as hazardous substance
Turkey Food additive E331 (Food Codex); Pharmaceutical excipient; Cosmetic ingredient approved; Subject to KKDIK regulation
IARC Not classified (non-toxic, non-carcinogenic)
NTP Not listed
OSHA Not regulated as toxic or carcinogenic substance
California (Prop 65) Not listed
WHO JECFA Approved (Evaluation No. 773)
FCC (Food Chemicals Codex) Listed
INCI Trisodium Citrate

SECTION 18: OTHER NAMES AND SYNONYMS

Type Name
Turkish Names Trisodyum Sitrat, Sodyum Sitrat, Limon Tuzu, Eritme Tuzu, Sitrat
English Names Trisodium Citrate, Sodium Citrate, Citric Acid Trisodium Salt, Lemon Salt, Melting Salt
Chemical Names Trisodium 2-hydroxypropane-1,2,3-tricarboxylate; Trisodium citrate; Citric acid trisodium salt
CAS Numbers 68-04-2 (Anhydrous); 6132-04-3 (Dihydrate)
EC Number 200-675-3
Molecular Formula Na₃C₆H₅O₇·nH₂O
HS Code 2918.15
E Number E331
INCI Trisodium Citrate
Synonyms Sodium Citrate, Trisodium Citrate Anhydrous, Trisodium Citrate Dihydrate, Citrosodine, TSC

SECTION 19: SUMMARY TABLE

Parameter Anhydrous Dihydrate
Product Trisodium Citrate (Anhydrous) Trisodium Citrate (Dihydrate)
CAS Number 68-04-2 6132-04-3
Molecular Formula Na₃C₆H₅O₇ Na₃C₆H₅O₇·2H₂O
Molecular Weight 258.06 g/mol 294.10 g/mol
Appearance White crystalline powder Colorless to white crystals
Density 1.76 g/cm³ ~1.70 g/cm³
pH (5% Solution) 7.5 – 9.0 7.5 – 9.0
Solubility in Water High (~72 g/100 mL) High (~72 g/100 mL)
Primary Use Carrier, stabilizer, industrial Cheese production (emulsifier), food
Shelf Life 24 – 48 months 24 – 48 months
GHS Signal Word NONE NONE
UN Number Not regulated Not regulated
Special Properties ~15% porous; Liquid carrier Contains crystal water; Cheese emulsifier

SECTION 20: CRITICAL WARNINGS AND BEST PRACTICES

CRITICAL WARNINGS:

  • Not classified as hazardous under GHS. Non-toxic, non-carcinogenic. FDA GRAS status.

  • Food additive E331 – Approved by EFSA, FDA, and WHO JECFA.

  • Pharmaceutical excipient – Complies with USP/Ph.Eur. standards.

  • Dust may cause mechanical irritation to eyes, skin, and respiratory system. Use appropriate dust control measures.

  • Non-combustible. However, may release toxic fumes at high temperatures.

  • Incompatibilities: Strong acids (citric acid formation), strong oxidizing agents, strong reducing agents.

  • Not hygroscopic – does not absorb moisture. However, store in dry conditions.

  • Dihydrate form loses water at high temperature – store at <30°C.

  • High doses may cause mild laxative effect.

  • Not an allergen, gluten-free.

BEST PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS:

Food Industry (E331): Use as acidity regulator and emulsifier; Dihydrate form preferred for cheese production; Use as texture improver in jams, ice cream, jelly, and confectionery; Acidity regulator in carbonated beverages and wine; Anti-browning agent for potatoes and vegetables; Additive in baby food production.

Pharmaceutical & Medical Applications: Use as anticoagulant in blood transfusions; pH buffer in drug formulations; Alkalizing agent in metabolic acidosis treatment; Excipient in diuretics, expectorants, and eye drops; Use pharmaceutical grade (USP/EP).

Industrial Applications: Use in phosphate-free detergent formulations for cleaning power enhancement; Chelating agent in cyanide-free electroplating; Thermal stabilizer for glycol in antifreeze; Strengthener in magnesium-based cleaning systems; Anhydrous form (~15% porous) can be used as liquid carrier.

Water Treatment: Use as chelating agent for water softening; Scale prevention in piping systems; Deposit control.

Handling: Use in well-ventilated areas; Avoid dust formation; Use dust masks (N95/FFP2) when handling powder; Use gloves and safety goggles.

Personal Protective Equipment: Dust mask (N95/FFP2 or higher), safety goggles, protective gloves (nitrile, neoprene). Not required for solution handling.

Hygiene: Wash hands thoroughly after handling; Do not eat, drink, or smoke while using.

Storage: Store in tightly closed, moisture-proof containers; Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area; Protect from moisture, rain, and sunlight; Store separately from acids and oxidizing agents; For dihydrate form, store at <30°C; Opened packages should be resealed immediately; Shelf life: 24-48 months under proper conditions.

Spill Management: Sweep or vacuum (HEPA) and place in suitable sealed container; Avoid dust formation; Do not allow entry into drains or waterways.

Disposal: Dispose of in accordance with local, regional, and national regulations; Non-hazardous waste; Biodegradable; Can be disposed of in compliance with regulations.

SPECIAL NOTE ON ANTICOAGULANT MECHANISM:

Trisodium citrate is widely used as an anticoagulant in blood transfusions:

  • Mechanism: Forms stable chelate complexes with calcium ions (Ca²⁺); Calcium is a required cofactor for the coagulation cascade; Calcium binding inhibits activation of coagulation factors; Maintains blood in liquid state.

  • Concentration: Typically 3.2% or 3.8% trisodium citrate solution is used for blood samples.

  • Advantages: Rapid action; Reversible effect (coagulation can be restored by adding calcium); Biocompatible; Non-toxic.

  • Applications: Blood transfusion; Blood samples (coagulation tests); Plasma separation; Blood bank applications.

SPECIAL NOTE ON CHEESE PRODUCTION:

Trisodium citrate (dihydrate form) is used as an emulsifying salt in cheese production:

  • Function: Provides homogeneous distribution of fat and water; Interacts with cheese proteins to improve melting properties; Creates a smooth, creamy texture; Improves sliceability in sliced cheese.

  • Mechanism: Binds calcium ions to relax the protein network; Allows homogeneous distribution of fat globules; Enhances emulsion stability.

  • Typical Use: Processed cheese, sliced cheese; Cheese sauces; Cream cheese.

  • Dosage: 0.5 – 2.0% of total mixture (depending on product type).

SPECIAL NOTE ON FOOD ADDITIVE E331:

Trisodium citrate is approved as food additive E331:

  • Approved Uses: Acidity regulator; Emulsifier; Stabilizer; Preservative; Anti-caking agent; Chelating agent.

  • Food Products: Cheese, jam, ice cream, jelly, confectionery; Carbonated beverages, wine, energy drinks; Potatoes and vegetables (anti-browning); Baby food; Medium-moisture cooked foods.

  • Safety: EFSA approved; FDA GRAS status; WHO JECFA approved; ADI: Not specified (safe); Not an allergen; Gluten-free.

  • ADI: "Not specified" – highest safety category; No consumption restrictions.

LEGAL DISCLAIMER:
The information provided in this document is based on our current knowledge and experience and is presented in good faith. However, as all conditions of use are beyond our control, it does not constitute a binding specification or warranty. This Technical Data Sheet is for informational purposes only. Users are responsible for testing the suitability for their own applications. For complete safety, storage, use, handling, waste, and regulatory compliance information, please refer to the official Safety Data Sheet (SDS/MSDS) provided by the manufacturer/supplier.

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