Ammonium tartrate dibasic is a chemical compound known for its properties as a crystalline solid. It comes from tartaric acid and ammonia, resulting in a double salt where two ammonium ions pair with each tartrate molecule. The molecular formula is C4H12N2O6, which reflects four carbon atoms, twelve hydrogens, two nitrogens, and six oxygens. Looking at its composition, this white, odorless powder or crystalline substance appears in various physical forms, including flakes, pearls, powder, or larger solid crystals. Its density usually sits around 1.7 g/cm³, giving a sense of its compactness compared to common salts. As a polar, ionic material, it dissolves well in water, making it useful in aqueous solutions and processes that rely on solubility and consistency at molecular scale.
The chemical structure of ammonium tartrate dibasic centers on the tartrate anion bonded with two ammonium cations. Each segment of this molecule interacts through hydrogen bonding, supporting its crystal formation and keeping the compound stable under most storage conditions. In laboratory and industrial handling, the white crystals or powder hold up under moderate heat, but strong or prolonged heating breaks them down, sometimes leading to the release of ammonia and tartaric acid vapors. This chemical is not volatile in regular conditions, so it doesn't evaporate or change form at room temperature. Since the compound behaves as a mild acid and salt, it doesn't attack skin or surfaces like strong acids or bases, which makes storage easier. Still, any chemical with nitrogen groups can react with oxidizers and should get respect for its properties. Safety data from suppliers and chemical guides describe it as moderately harmful if mishandled, with inhalation, ingestion, or eye contact leading to discomfort or irritation. Following standard safety practices—including gloves, goggles, and adequate ventilation—reduces risk, and having a spill kit close at hand covers most emergencies.
Industry often requests ammonium tartrate dibasic to a specific grade or particle size. Laboratory-grade batches target high-purity demands; technical grades offer more affordability for bulk uses without the heightened scrutiny needed in pharmaceutical or food labs. Buyers find this compound available as solid flakes, coarse powder, or small, pearl-like crystals. Bulk suppliers in China, Europe, and North America each publish their own specifications, but the important numbers rarely move: formula C4H12N2O6, density about 1.7 g/cm³, melting point in the range of 150–170°C, water solubility above 25 grams per 100 milliliters at room temperature. The HS code for customs tracking is usually 2918.19.0000—an identifier critical for global trade, especially where chemical safety and regulation come into play. Manufacturers start with tartaric acid from grapes or wine byproducts, treating it with aqueous ammonia under controlled pH to crystallize the dibasic salt. Purity checks weed out unreacted ammonia or leftover acidic tartrate, ensuring consistent quality and minimizing unplanned reactions downstream.
Ammonium tartrate dibasic shows up in surprising corners of chemical manufacturing and laboratory procedures. Specialists use it as a buffer in analytical chemistry, especially where gentle acidity and ammonia release support reactions without overwhelming the mix. Some old-school electroplating lines turn to ammonium tartrate for its ability to control metal deposition, maintaining proper ion flow and crystal structure on growing metal films. Plant biologists sometimes include it in nutrient solutions, counting on its steady dissolution rate and predictable nitrogen release. Scientists exploring fermentation or biocatalysis choose it because it won’t show the strong alkalinity of pure ammonia solutions, yet still provide nitrogen and a well-behaved acid. For storage, the compound needs a sealed bag or jar, kept in a dry and well-ventilated space. Like many ammonium salts, it shouldn’t mix with oxidizers or strong bases, as these combos can boost the risk of runaway reactions. Spills need a shovel and mask—scooping into a proper waste bin, followed by a water rinse, covers typical cases.
Reputable sources offer clear hazard ratings for ammonium tartrate dibasic. Its GHS labels do not rank it as acutely toxic, flammable, or an environmental danger in everyday handling. Still, that does not free users to ignore the regular rules around chemical safety. Inhaling the dust brings typical discomfort—a sore throat, coughing, or respiratory irritation appear if you work for long periods without a mask. Eating it causes an upset stomach; getting it in the eyes triggers redness and tearing. Anyone handling large quantities knows to store it away from food and drink, label containers, and wear gloves and goggles anytime the powder is moved or measured. Wash stations and general cleanup supplies stay close, since any chemical dust in the air can create a longer-term risk if allowed to settle on clothing, benches, or sensitive surfaces. Fire crews see little reaction risk, but as an ammonium compound, combustion could create nitrogen oxides or ammonia vapors, so a prompt response to any incident always makes sense.
Modern chemical industries keep pushing for better safety and less environmental harm. Ammonium tartrate dibasic doesn’t draw headlines like more notorious chemicals, but its moderate toxicity means regulations in the workplace and during transit. Packing the material in moisture-resistant bags, tracking shipments with digital HS codes, and auditing facilities for spill controls all help reduce accidents. Users who handle the crystals or powder day-in and day-out usually develop routines that work: segregating raw materials, making up solutions in ventilated hoods, and washing hands before leaving the lab. Vendors include material safety data sheets with every batch—offering fast guidance in emergencies and clarity about the right procedures for use, storage, and disposal. With clear labeling and attention to the specific quirks of ammonium compounds, the risks drop, and users keep turning to ammonium tartrate dibasic in industries from food science to pharmaceuticals, secure in the knowledge that controlled handling and reliable sourcing answer the biggest concerns.
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