Sodium tripolyphosphate

Sodium tripolyphosphate, abbreviated STPP, is a condensed phosphate used as a detergent builder, sequestrant and dispersing agent. It binds calcium and magnesium ions that would otherwise interfere with surfactant action. Its interaction with particulate soil and mineral surfaces also helps reduce aggregation and redeposition in suitable aqueous systems.

The technical powder is incorporated into dry blends or dissolved for liquid process use. Its phosphate chain differs from pyrophosphate and orthophosphate salts, which affects sequestration and hydration behavior. Commercial phase composition and granulation can influence dissolution and incorporation during detergent manufacture. The selected industrial grade is used for cleaning and mineral processing rather than assigned the food-processing functions of a separately specified food grade.

Typical Applications

• Powder laundry detergents: Used as a builder to control water hardness and support soil removal. It helps the surfactant system work in mineral-containing wash water and limits redeposition of dispersed soil.
• Industrial and automatic-dishwashing cleaners: Used in compatible cleaning formulations for hardness sequestration, alkalinity support and particulate-soil dispersion. The phosphate contribution works alongside surfactants and other alkaline ingredients.
• Ceramic slips and glazes: Used as a deflocculant in suitable ceramic suspensions. Dispersion reduces association between mineral particles and can improve flow or permit higher solids in the process slurry.

Specifications

Specifications describe the standard grade. Tolerance, test method and documentation package are confirmed per order.