Ammonium bicarbonate is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula NH₄HCO₃. This substance is in the form of a white, crystalline powder and is soluble in water. Ammonium bicarbonate has wide applications in various industries due to its special chemical properties.

Properties of Ammonium Bicarbonate

Low thermal stability: One of the most important properties of ammonium bicarbonate is its low thermal stability. With increasing temperature, this substance decomposes into ammonia, water, and carbon dioxide. This property has led to its use as a leavening agent in the food industry.
Alkalinity: An aqueous solution of ammonium bicarbonate has alkaline properties.
Ammonia odor: This substance has a mild ammonia odor.
Solubility: It dissolves in water but is insoluble in alcohols and acetone.

Ammonium Bicarbonate Applications

Food Industry:
Leaving Agent: The most important use of ammonium bicarbonate in the food industry is as a leavening agent in baked goods such as biscuits, crackers, and some breads. When heated, it decomposes and releases carbon dioxide gas, which causes dough to rise.
pH Adjustment: It is used in some food products to adjust pH.
Pharmaceutical Industry:
Pharmaceutical Preparation: It is used as a raw material in the production of some drugs.
Textile Industry:
Dye Fixation: It is used in the textile industry to fix dyes on fibers.
Rubber Industry:
Sponge Rubber Production: It is used as a void-forming agent in the production of sponge rubber.
Agricultural Industry:
Fertilizer: It is used as a source of nitrogen in some chemical fertilizers.