General Information
Citric acid monohydrate, a crystalline form of citric acid with one water molecule, is a versatile compound with widespread applications in various industries. Its multifunctionality and compatibility make it an essential ingredient in food and beverage production, pharmaceutical formulations, and household products. As an acidulant, flavor enhancer, and chelating agent, citric acid monohydrate contributes to the sensory attributes and stability of numerous consumer goods and industrial products.
Renowned for its tart flavor and preservative properties, citric acid monohydrate is a key component in many formulations. Its significance extends beyond its chemical structure, influencing sensory characteristics and functional properties in diverse applications.
Specifications
Citric acid monohydrate typically appears as colorless crystals or a white crystalline powder. It is highly soluble in water and has a sour taste. The compound’s purity often exceeds 99%, meeting stringent quality standards for pharmaceutical and food-grade applications. Additionally, citric acid monohydrate conforms to regulatory specifications, ensuring its suitability for various industrial processes.
It is available in granular and powder forms, with custom granulations available upon request. Packaging options include 25 kg net polyethylene (LDPE) bags or 1000 kg net polypropylene big bags, with specifications available upon request.
One of sodium gluconate’s remarkable qualities is its exceptional chelating ability, particularly in alkaline solutions. It forms stable chelates with various heavy metals like calcium, iron, copper, and aluminum, surpassing other chelating agents such as EDTA and NTA.
Solutions of sodium gluconate resist oxidation and reduction, even under high temperatures, though it biodegrades easily (98% within 2 days) without posing wastewater issues.
Moreover, sodium gluconate acts as a highly efficient retarder for setting and a good plasticizer/water reducer in concrete, mortar, and gypsum.
Properties
- Colorless crystals or white crystalline powder
- Highly soluble in water
- Sour taste
- High purity exceeding 99%
- Meets pharmaceutical and food-grade standards
Primary Functions
- Acidulant and flavor enhancer in food and beverages
- Chelating agent and pH adjuster in industrial processes
Applications
Citric acid monohydrate serves as a natural acidulant and flavor enhancer in a wide range of food and beverage products, including soft drinks, fruit juices, and salad dressings. Its ability to enhance tartness and extend shelf life makes it indispensable in food processing.
Widely used as an excipient in pharmaceutical formulations, citric acid monohydrate helps adjust pH levels and enhance the solubility of active ingredients. Its chelating properties also contribute to the stability and efficacy of certain medications, ensuring their quality and safety.
Citric acid monohydrate finds application in household cleaning products, such as descalers and toilet bowl cleaners. Its ability to dissolve mineral deposits and remove stains makes it effective in maintaining cleanliness and hygiene in households.
