What is Ammonium Bicarbonate?

Ammonium Bicarbonate (NH₄HCO₃) is a white crystalline powder that decomposes easily into carbon dioxide (CO₂), ammonia (NH₃), and water (H₂O) when heated. It is a versatile chemical widely used in various industries, especially in baking and agriculture.

It has a faint ammonia odor and is highly soluble in water but unstable in hot or humid conditions. As a single compound serving dual functions—leavening and nitrogen supplementation—Ammonium Bicarbonate is a cost-effective and efficient material for both food and industrial applications.

Applications in the Food Industry

1. Baking and Leavening Agent
Ammonium Bicarbonate is a traditional leavening agent used especially in the baking of cookies, crackers, and flat baked goods. It releases gas quickly when exposed to heat, creating a porous, airy structure.

• Ideal for low-moisture baked goods

• Leaves no alkaline aftertaste when fully decomposed

• Commonly used in traditional European baking recipes

2. Food Processing
In some food processing applications, it serves as a pH regulator and stabilizer, and is often included in food additive lists under the E-number E503 (ii).

Applications in the Industrial Sector

1. Agriculture and Fertilizers
Ammonium Bicarbonate is a source of nitrogen in fertilizer formulations. It supplies ammonium ions readily available for plant uptake and helps improve soil fertility.

• Nitrogen content ~17%

• Often used in compound fertilizers

• Cost-effective for low-nitrogen-demand crops

2. Fire Extinguishers
Used in dry chemical fire extinguishers for Class B and C fires due to its ability to suppress flames chemically.

3. Plastics and Rubber Production
Functions as a foaming agent and blowing agent in plastics and rubber processing, contributing to lightweight material development.

4. Pharmaceuticals and Lab Reagents
It is sometimes used in buffer solutions and as a reagent in pharmaceutical formulations.

Conclusion

Ammonium Bicarbonate is a multifunctional chemical with critical applications across the food and industrial spectrum. From crispy crackers to nitrogen-rich fertilizers, its role is essential and efficient. Whether you're a food producer, agricultural supplier, or industrial processor, sourcing high-quality Ammonium Bicarbonate from a trusted partner ensures both safety and performance.

TDS - Ammonium bicarbonate.pdf