The primary commercial name for the compound referred to as ammonium phosphate, specifically monoammonium phosphate (MAP), is MONOAMMONIUM PHOSPHATE.
Understanding Ammonium Phosphate
Ammonium phosphate is a general term that can refer to several compounds, most commonly monoammonium phosphate (MAP) and diammonium phosphate (DAP). The information provided pertains specifically to monoammonium phosphate, which has the chemical formula NH₄H₂PO₄. It is widely recognized for its high nutrient content and is a staple in various industries.
Commercial Names and Synonyms
While "MONOAMMONIUM PHOSPHATE" stands out as a primary commercial designation, this compound is known by several other names and synonyms in the industry. These different names often highlight specific chemical structures or common uses.
Primary Commercial Name
The most prominent commercial name, often capitalized in industry contexts, is:
- MONOAMMONIUM PHOSPHATE (MAP)
Other Commercial Synonyms
Beyond its primary commercial name, monoammonium phosphate is also known by the following synonyms:
- Ammonium dihydrogen phosphate
- Ammonium biphosphate
- Phosphoric acid, monoammonium salt
- Ammonium acid phosphate
- Ammonium dihydrogen orthophosphate
- Ammonium monophosphate
- Ammonium dihydrophosphate
Key Identifiers for Monoammonium Phosphate
To provide a clear overview, the following table summarizes the chemical and commercial identifiers for monoammonium phosphate:
| Chemical Name | Commercial Name / Synonyms | EC Number |
|---|---|---|
| Ammonium Phosphate (Monoammonium Phosphate) | MONOAMMONIUM PHOSPHATE, Ammonium dihydrogen phosphate, Ammonium biphosphate, Phosphoric acid, monoammonium salt, Ammonium acid phosphate, Ammonium dihydrogen orthophosphate, Ammonium monophosphate, Ammonium dihydrophosphate | 231-764-5 |
Applications and Uses
Monoammonium phosphate (MAP) is highly valued for its versatile properties, making it essential across various sectors. Its primary applications include:
- Fertilizer: MAP is a popular source of phosphorus and nitrogen for crops due to its high nutrient content and excellent water solubility. It is often used in compound fertilizers and as a standalone granular fertilizer.
- Fire Retardant: Its ability to release ammonia and phosphoric acid upon heating makes it an effective fire retardant in various materials, including wood, textiles, and paper.
- Food Additive: In some contexts, it can be used as a leavening agent or a buffering agent.
- Industrial Processes: MAP is used in water treatment, as a yeast nutrient in fermentation, and in the production of other chemicals.
Key Properties
Monoammonium phosphate is known for several key properties that contribute to its wide range of uses:
- Water Solubility: It is highly soluble in water, which is crucial for its effectiveness as a fertilizer, allowing plants to easily absorb nutrients.
- Non-Hygroscopic: Unlike some other fertilizers, MAP is not prone to absorbing moisture from the air, which helps maintain its quality and prevents caking during storage.
- Acidic Nature: When dissolved in water, MAP produces an acidic solution, which can be beneficial in alkaline soils by helping to lower the pH around the plant roots, thus improving nutrient uptake.
