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Is trisodium phosphate an acid salt?
Trisodium phosphate is an inorganic salt with a molecular formula of $ N{a_3}P{O_4} $ . It is a crystalline, granular, white coloured solid. It is also known as an amphoteric salt. Amphoteric salts are those salts which can act as both acid and base.
Is trisodium phosphate corrosive?
It reacts violently with acid and is corrosive. Attacks many metals in the presence of water. Serious local effects by all routes of exposure. The substance is corrosive to the eyes, skin and respiratory tract.
Is TSP phosphoric acid?
Trisodium phosphate is produced by neutralization of phosphoric acid using sodium carbonate, which produces disodium hydrogen phosphate. The disodium hydrogen phosphate is reacted with sodium hydroxide to form trisodium phosphate and water.
What are the properties of trisodium phosphate?
Chemical Properties Trisodium phosphate (anhydrous) is a white, granular or crystalline solid, highly soluble in water and produces a strong alkaline solution. On exposure to heat, trisodium phosphate decomposes and produces toxic and corrosive fumes including phosphorous oxides.
How do you neutralize trisodium phosphate?
It is important to note that TSP is most effective against aerobic microbes (Sallam et al., 2004); 1 cup per 5 gallons is the recommended dilution, and washing with citric acid is recommended to neutralize the residue.
Is TSP the same as borax?
Here's a list of alternatives to TSP: Borax: Though TSP and borax are not the same, they can both be used to clean and cut through surface grease.
Is TSP harmful to humans?
A toxic substance, TSP can be harmful if swallowed, and exposure to it (in granular or diluted form) can cause serious eye injury and skin irritation.
What is trisodium phosphate used for?
Trisodium phosphate (TSP) is an industrial cleaning product used as a degreasing agent, mildew remover and lead abating agent and to clean interior and exterior walls before painting.
What is a good substitute for trisodium phosphate?
An Alternative to Cleaning with TSP Also known as sodium borate, borax is a naturally-occurring mineral compound that will clean many of the same surfaces TSP has been used on for years, including mold- and mildew-stained areas—all without causing damage nearby plants.
What is the difference between sodium phosphate and trisodium phosphate?
Trisodium orthophosphate and sodium phosphate are inorganic compounds containing phosphorous. The key difference between trisodium orthophosphate and sodium phosphate is that trisodium orthophosphate is harmful to the environment, whereas sodium phosphate is comparatively environmentally friendly.
Is trisodium phosphate toxic?
Trisodium phosphate is a strong chemical. Poisoning occurs if you swallow, breathe in, or spill large amounts of this substance on your skin. This article is for information only. DO NOT use it to treat or manage an actual poison exposure.
Is trisodium phosphate banned?
Trisodium Phosphate (TSP) It has been banned in many states but is still sold in some places as a degreaser. TSP is also sold as an additive for cleaning products because it is no longer included in modern formulations.
Is trisodium phosphate hazardous?
Skin: May cause severe irritation and possible burns. Ingestion: May cause severe gastrointestinal tract irritation with nausea, vomiting and possible burns. Ingestion: May cause severe Gastrointestinal tract irritation with nausea, vomiting and possible burns.
Is trisodium phosphate harmful?
Trisodium phosphate is a strong chemical. Poisoning occurs if you swallow, breathe in, or spill large amounts of this substance on your skin. This article is for information only. DO NOT use it to treat or manage an actual poison exposure.
Can TSP be used on metal?
Damage to certain surfaces: Avoid cleaning with TSP in the bathroom; it can damage metal, ceramic tile, grout, and glass.
Is TSP harmful to humans?
While trisodium phosphate is not harmful in small doses, large amounts can cause acute as well as long-term health effects. Educating yourself about this chemical additive and avoiding processed foods are among the best ways to limit your intake.
Why is trisodium phosphate used in bread?
For example, trisodium phosphate is a popular ingredient in store-bought bread, cakes, muffins and cake mixes due to its ability to increase the fluffiness and height of these items.
What is sodium phosphate?
Sodium phosphate refers to a group of phosphorus-derived food additives.
What is inorganic phosphorus?
Trusted Source. ). Inorganic phosphorus includes phosphorus-derived food additives like trisodium phosphate, which are added to foods as an ingredient . Trisodium phosphate is one of the most common types of sodium phosphate additives and can be found in a variety of items. It and other phosphate additives are routinely used in fast food ...
What is phosphorus found in?
Phosphorus is an important mineral that is naturally found in foods like milk, beans, meat, fish, eggs, poultry and nuts. ). Inorganic phosphorus includes phosphorus-derived food additives like trisodium phosphate, which are added to foods as an ingredient. Trisodium phosphate is one of the most common types of sodium phosphate additives ...
Why is phosphorus intake increasing?
Phosphorus intake has steadily increased over time due to the increased consumption of phosphorus-containing food additives like trisodium phosphate.
What are the effects of high phosphate levels?
High phosphate levels have been linked to kidney disease, intestinal inflammation, decreased bone density, heart conditions and even premature death.
Does sodium phosphate harm bones?
A diet high in foods that contain sodium phosphate additives may harm bone health. Maintaining normal levels of phosphorus in the body is essential for strong bones. However, disturbing this delicate balance by consuming too much or too little phosphorus can wreak havoc on the skeletal system. ).
How is trisodium phosphate obtained?
In another process, trisodium phosphate is obtained by digestion of the phosphate -rich neutralization sludges , which accumulate in the purification of wet phosphoric acid by precipitation, with caustic soda and with addition of water glass.
What is the USEPA code for trisodium phosphate?
For trisodium phosphate (USEPA/OPP Pesticide Code: 076406) there are 0 labels match. /SRP: Not registered for current use in the U.S., but approved pesticide uses may change periodically and so federal, state and local authorities must be consulted for currently approved uses./
What is HSDB in chemical?
Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB) Trisodium phosphate is mainly produced as the dodecahydrate by complete neutralization of phosphoric acid with caustic soda or soda ash and subsequent crystallization.
What is the name of the compound that corrodes brass?
When wet, mild steel or brass may be corroded by trisodium phosphate.
How are monophosphates formed?
Sodium monophosphates are usually produced by neutralization of phosphoric acid with soda ash or caustic soda. The latter is predominantly used in Germany, while in the United States, the less expensive soda ash prevails. The basicity of sodium carbonate is insufficient for the formation of trisodium phosphate, so that caustic soda must be used in this step. The phosphates crystallize from the solutions as hydrates and are separated by centrifugation. Anhydrous salts are obtained by dehydration in rotary dryers or directly from the solutions by spray drying or in rotary kilns. Both thermal phosphoric acid and the cheaper wet phosphoric acid are used as starting materials. The very pure thermal phosphoric acid is generally used in the production of food-grade phosphates. /Sodium monophosphates/
What is the role of phosphate in the body?
Phosphate is a major intracellular anion which participates in providing energy for metabolism of substances and contributes to important metabolic and enzymatic reactions in almost all organs and tissues. Phosphate exerts a modifying influence on calcium concentrations, a buffering effect on acid-base equilibrium, and has a major role in the renal excretion of hydrogen ions. / Phosphate /
What is sodium phosphate?
Sodium Phosphate is an inorganic compound used as a laxative, dietary supplement and for electrolyte-replacement purposes. Phosphate, a predominant intracellular anion, plays an important role in energy storage, osteoblastic and osteoclastic activities, regulating serum calcium concentrations, and numerous cellular phosphate -transfer reactions. Sodium phosphate increases fluidity of the intestinal contents by retention of water by osmotic forces, thereby indirectly inducing intestinal smooth muscle constriction. Sodium phosphate is also used in the renal excretion of hydrogen ions while promoting the reabsorption of sodium ions.
What Is Trisodium Phosphate (TSP)?
Trisodium phosphate, commonly called TSP, is a packaged, blended cleaning product consisting of 75 to 80 percent trisodium phosphate and 20 to 25 percent sodium carbonate. TSP usually comes in the form of an odorless dry powder that must be thoroughly mixed into hot water to form a mostly clear solution, though slightly cloudy. Applied with sponges or scrub brushes, TSP is an effective, heavy-duty cleaner for problem areas around the house that may be sooty, greasy, or dirty. Though bans on phosphates are in effect in many communities, TSP, where legal, is often favored by contractors and painters to ensure that the surface will be clean, dust-free, and able to take the paint. Phosphate-free substitutes to TSP are available.
What is TSP cleaning?
Applied with sponges or scrub brushes, TSP is an effective, heavy-duty cleaner for problem areas around the house that may be sooty, greasy, or dirty.
Can you use TSP on glass?
What Not to Clean With TSP. Though TSP can be used for a wide variety of surfaces, it cannot be used for all surfaces. TSP can darken or stain some materials, and it can etch glass and mirrors. Keep TSP away from aluminum, as well as other metals, when the TSP solution is at its hottest.
Is trisodium phosphate banned?
Yet it's not a product without controversy, and many states even ban it outright. This product is called trisodium phosphate and it just might be the heavy-duty cleaner you need for projects around the home such as for painting or cleaning soot from chimneys or for cleaning mildew and mold behind refrigerators and kitchen sinks.
Is phosphate in detergent banned?
Dishwasher detergents containing phosphates are banned in all 50 states, and laundry detergents are banned in a majority of states. The movement toward banning phosphates includes TSP in many states. For retailers offering TSP in states with bans, the penalty can be high.
Is phosphate free cleaner better than TSP?
Free of phosphates, these substitutes usually come in fluid form for easier mixing with water and work comparable to TSP. Safe for cleaning aluminum, these solutions will not harm vegetation if you are using them for outdoor cleaning. Another benefit of these phosphate-free cleaners over TSP is that they do not require rinsing after they have been applied to the surface.
Is TSP toxic?
Safety Considerations. TSP is toxic and can cause eye and skin irritation and is harmful if swallowed. TSP requires care when you work with it. Always use eye protection and waterproof gloves when handling or cleaning with TSP. Also wear full skin protection, including long sleeves and long pants.
How is trisodium phosphate made?
Trisodium phosphate is produced by neutralization of phosphoric acid using sodium hydroxide, often with sodium carbonate. Carbonate can only produce disodium phosphate:
What is the use of trisodium phosphate?
The Uses of Trisodium Phosphate. Trisodium Phosphate or TSP is commonly used as cleaning agent, food additive, flux in medical and degreaser in paintings. TSP is a strong base and can cause severe eye damage and can burn unprotected skin.
What is TSP paint?
TSP is formulated for removing Grease, soot, and lead paint dust cleanup. A washing of surfaces prior to painting helps insure a good clean “bite” for the finish coats of paint.
What is TSP flux?
Trisodium phosphate is an approved flux for use in hard soldering joints in medical grade copper plumbing. The flux is applied as a concentrated water solution and dissolves copper oxides at the temperature used in copper brazing. Residues are fully water soluble and can be rinsed out of plumbing before it is put in service. TSP is used as an ingredient in fluxes designed to deoxygenate nonferrous metals for casting. TSP can be used in ceramic production to lower the flow point of glazes.
Why add TSP to food?
Adding TSP to food increases the shelf life of the food, maintaining the texture and appearance of the food. Sodium phosphates are only used as food additives. Sodium phosphates are added to many foods as an emulsifier to prevent oil separation.
How to use TSP?
Keep away from skin and out of gloves. Prolonged contact with skin, splashing in eyes should be avoided. If splashed in eyes, flush thoroughly with water. If swallowed, drink at least 2 glasses of milk or water. Any foliage near where TSP is to be used should be soaked with plain water prior to the application of TSP, and rinsed down afterward.
What is the chemical formula for trisodium phosphate?
What is Trisodium Phosphate. Trisodium Phosphate (TSP) also termed trisodium orthophosphate with chemical formula Na3PO4 with hydrated forms. It is an extremely water-soluble ionic salt and it gives alkaline pH in the solution. In most of the cases this compound is used as heavy duty cleaning agents, its cleaning action can be attributed by its pH ...
What is TSP in poultry?
TSP is known for its surfactant properties which aid in preventing Campylobacter and Salmonella attachment to poultry. In addition TSP has the ability to remove some fat from the meat which indirectly aids in the removal of bacteria attached to the fat on the meat ( Sarjit and Dykes, 2015 ).
What is TSP used for?
Among the inorganic phosphates, trisodium phosphate (TSP) is a well-recognised antimicrobial used in poultry processing facilities. Trisodium phosphate is formed by neutralizing phosphoric acid with sodium hydroxide as follows: Na2 HPO 4 + NaOH → Na 3 PO 4 + H 2 O. Low reactivity of Na + and PO 43− ions which are produced due to the dissociation of TSP when mixed with water causes extremely low by-product formation. This inorganic phosphate is an alkaline sanitizer and is used between pH 10–12. Gram negative bacteria such as Campylobacter and Salmonella are more susceptible to alkaline sanitizers including TSP at this pH range than Gram positive bacteria due to the presence of the thin peptidoglycan layer (Capita et al., 2002; Dickson et al., 1994 ). TSP is known for its surfactant properties which aid in preventing Campylobacter and Salmonella attachment to poultry. In addition TSP has the ability to remove some fat from the meat which indirectly aids in the removal of bacteria attached to the fat on the meat ( Sarjit and Dykes, 2015 ). It is also able to remove the protective lipid layer on the meat enabling it to reach the entrapped pathogens thereby reducing the prevalence of these pathogens on meat ( Capita et al., 2002 ).
What is the purpose of TSP?
Trisodium phosphate (TSP) was developed in the US for the control of salmonella on poultry. TSP (Na3 PO 4) possibly works by removing a thin layer of fat from the carcass surface and in doing so removing the microorganisms attached to the surface ( Giese, 1992), it then causes rupture of the bacterial cell membrane.
How does TSP work?
As an antimicrobial, TSP removes attached bacteria from carcass surfaces by means of its surfactant properties and high alkalinity (pH about 12.0). In addition, TSP kills bacteria by disrupting the cell membrane and causing leakage of cellular material (Giese, 1993 ).
Which bacteria are more susceptible to alkaline sanitizer?
Gram negative bacteria such as Campylobacter and Salmonella are more susceptible to alkaline sanitizers including TSP at this pH range than Gram positive bacteria due to the presence of the thin peptidoglycan layer (Capita et al., 2002; Dickson et al., 1994 ).
Is trisodium phosphate a disinfectant?
Trisodium phosphate has been tested as a disinfectant for fresh produce by a few authors. Zhuang and Beuchat (1996) demonstrated complete inactivation of Salmonella Montevideo. Liao and Sapers (2000) observed a 1 log reduction on the surface when tomatoes were dipped in 15% trisodium phosphate for 15 s.
Does TSP kill microbials?
Although, TSP is effective in reducing microbial counts from poultry, there are some concerns about using the compound. In particular, the high pH can cause problems when the spray-application method is used prior to carcasses entering the chiller. The resultant increase in the alkalinity of the chill-water to pH 9.5–10.5 decreases the antimicrobial activity of added chlorine. Following treatment, any attempt to remove residual TSP by spray-washing the carcasses would only add to treatment cost and complexity. In addition, large amounts of phosphate in the wastewater represent an environmental issue. Finally, like many chemical treatments, the compatibility of phosphate compounds with processing equipment must be considered. Over time, phosphates can be corrosive to metal equipment, although less so than substances such as chlorine.
What is trisodium phosphate used for?
Many people use trisodium phosphate for general and household cleaning. It is especially well-suited for cleaning decks and siding. The cleaner works nicely for walls, floors, woodwork, decks, and siding. It can also clean up concrete drives, patios, sidewalks, and masonry.
Why use trisodium phosphate for painting?
Painting. Many professional painters choose trisodium phosphate to clean surfaces for painting. Some consider a scrubbing with trisodium phosphate to be essential painting prep. The reason is simple. Trisodium phosphate cuts through tough grime including grease, smoke, and soot, like no other cleaner.
What is TSP paint?
Trisodium phosphate (or TSP) is a heavy-duty cleaner often used to prepare surfaces for painting . It is inexpensive and works well for a range of tough cleaning jobs. Read on to learn what it is and whether it’s safe to use when cleaning. Disclaimer: REthority is supported by ads and participation in affiliate programs.
How to apply TSP?
Applying TSP. You can apply the TSP solution with rags, sponges, or mops. When cleaning decks or siding, a pressure washer makes the job much faster. For walls and woodwork, apply with a sponge or cloth. Squeeze the excess liquid from the sponge or cloth first. Rinse with clean water.
When did TSP become a major ingredient in laundry detergent?
Many dishwasher detergent, laundry soap and household cleansers had TSP as a major ingredient. However, beginning in the 1970s, many states began regulating phosphates. It was found that when it washed into rivers and lakes, it caused rapid growth of algae.
Can you substitute trisodium phosphate for phosphate?
Retailers may sell substitutes for trisodium phosphate due to local restrictions on phosphates. Sodium carbonate is one TSP substitute. Substitutes are less hazardous but don’t work as well. Trisodium phosphate is safe enough that small amounts are used as ingredients in many foods.
Is TSP good for cleaning?
Trisodium Phosphate, otherwise known as TSP, is a heavy-duty cleaning solution. It’s highly soluble in water, which produces an alkaline solution. This helps you clean your home, inside and out. TSP is great for cleaning wood. But it should not be used on metal, tile, and glass.
What happens if phosphates are in a lake?
If it ends up in lakes and streams, the phosphates trigger an overgrowth of algae that results in a depletion of oxygen levels in the water, which endangers fish and aquatic plant life.
What is TSP paint?
Paint-stripping capabilities: So strong that it will peel old paint from a surface along with the stains, TSP is often used for cleaning surfaces in the course of preparation for painting, particularly for exteriors. It removes splintered or flaking leftover paint that may impede the bond of the new coat. Mold and mildew treatment: One benefit of ...
What is a good substitute for TSP?
If the cons give you pause and you wish to use another cleanser, consider this TSP substitute: borax. Also known as sodium borate, borax is a naturally-occurring mineral compound that will clean many of the same surfaces TSP has been used on for years, including mold- and mildew-stained areas—all without causing damage nearby plants. (See it in use in our tutorial for homemade deck cleaner .) Plus, you can pick up this powerful antimicrobial cleaning agent right in your grocery store’s cleaning aisle.
What is TSP used for?
Photo: amazon.com. It wasn’t so long ago that trisodium phosphate (TSP) was a go-to choice for tough cleaning jobs , especially on exteriors. Diluted in water and applied often with a stiff scrub brush, it can remove stubborn grease stains and mold and mildew growth. In recent years, however, the popularity of TSP has waned.
Can TSP be used on painted surfaces?
Damage to certain surfaces: Avoid cleaning with TSP in the bathroom; it can damage metal, ceramic tile, grout, and glass. And as discussed above, it’s not suitable for painted surfaces.
Can you use TSP instead of TSP?
Before starting your cleaning project, be sure to check local regulations. Also note that on the shelves of your local home center you may not find TSP, but TSP substitute instead. The latter is much safer to use, but most agree that it doesn’t clean as well as the real stuff.
Is TSP toxic to cleaning?
Cons of Cleaning with TSP. Toxicity: Being toxic, TSP must be handled with care. That means wearing the appropriate protective gear. T-shirts and shorts are a no-no. Instead, wear full-sleeve clothing in addition to gloves, glasses, and a respiratory mask.
What is trisodium phosphate?
Trisodium phosphate is a food additive used in packaged baked goods and meat products. Over the past several years, large cereal companies, like General Mills, have caught some heat for including it in their breakfast cereal. And why wouldn’t they? This chemical is used in industrial products, such as bleach and paint thinner.
What is the purpose of phosphates in food?
According to the USDA, phosphates serve a dual purpose: One, they help certain food products, particularly meat products, retain moisture; and two, they help with flavor protection.
Why do we need phosphorus?
Each of us needs phosphorus in our diets to have healthy, strong bones, build protein, and store energy. Trisodium phosphate is just one of several other phosphate additives the food industry uses, including tripolyphosphate, tripotassium phosphate, hexametaphosphate, acid pyrophosphate, and orthophosphates.
Is trisodium phosphate in cereal?
In recent years, health blogs have slammed the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for allowing the use of trisodium phosphate in cereal. In fact, a Change.Org petition garnered more than 1,350 signatures calling for big brands, namely General Mills, to remove the use of trisodium phosphate in popular cereals including Cheerios, Golden Grahams, Lucky Charms, and Honey Comb.
Is phosphate bad for you?
A Washington Post article, which noted the use of phosphates in packaged meats, quoted experts who said that phosphates are connected to many health risks, including early death. The problem is, a lot of research about phosphates is ongoing, leaving a number of questions unresolved.
Is sugar toxic to humans?
So, you need to ask yourself, what do you want to be putting into your body? Certain foods, like sugar, aren’t toxic in small doses , but repeated consumption can lead to various health risks.
Does trisodium phosphate cause diarrhea?
For example, consuming one gram of trisodium phosphate could cause health problems, including diarrhea and abdominal pain. However, the amounts used in food-grade trisodium phosphate, like breakfast cereal, are far less. In 2015, General Mills fired back at a series of tweets from consumers angered about the use of trisodium phosphate in their ...

Overview
- There is growing concern surrounding the safety of food additives, which are used to prolong sh…
Trisodium phosphate is a common food additive found in many types of processed foods, such as cereals, cheeses, soda, and baked goods. - While the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) considers it safe, some evidence suggests that p…
This article investigates whether trisodium phosphate poses a risk to your health.
People with kidney disease or kidney failure
- When the kidneys are healthy and functioning normally, they filter out waste products from the b…
However, when the kidneys are compromised, such as in people with chronic kidney disease (CKD) or kidney failure, they lose the ability to properly excrete waste products. - People with kidney failure or advanced CKD need to limit the amount of phosphorus they consu…
Consuming too much phosphorus can further harm already compromised kidneys by damaging blood vessels and causing abnormal calcium buildup ( 6 ).
Those with osteoporosis and osteopenia
- A diet high in foods that contain sodium phosphate additives may harm bone health.
Maintaining normal levels of phosphorus in the body is essential for strong bones. - However, disturbing this delicate balance by consuming too much or too little phosphorus can w…
For example, a study found that consuming a diet rich in sodium phosphate food additives increased fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23), an inhibitor of bone mineralization, by 23% compared to an identical diet low in phosphate additives ( 8 ).
People with heart conditions
- Excessive consumption of sodium phosphate additives can also harm the heart.
In fact, high circulating phosphorus levels have been associated with an increased risk of heart disease in people with and without kidney disease ( 11, 12 ). - Having too much phosphorus in the body can damage the heart by causing the calcification of b…
A 2009 study in 3,015 young adults found that higher blood levels of phosphate were associated with increased coronary artery calcification and other heart disease risk factors.
Those who have inflammatory bowel disease
- High intake of inorganic phosphorus has been shown to worsen intestinal inflammation in anim…
Studies in both humans and rats have found that elevated phosphorus can cause inflammation in the body ( 14, 15 ). - Inflammation is at the root of ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, which are collectively referr…
A recent animal study suggests that a diet high in inorganic phosphate could worsen symptoms associated with IBD.