STPP-sodium tripolyphosphate

Sodium tripolyphosphate (STPP) is a sodium salt of triphosphoric acid that has the appearance of white crystal powder. It is odorless and is water soluble. In a highly controlled environment, it is made by combining monosodium phosphate and disodium phosphate. Among its many uses, sodium tripolyphosphate generally is used as a builder and a preservative.

As a builder, sodium tripolyphosphate mainly is used in detergents and soaps. This includes dishwasher detergents as well as laundry detergents. It is used in most gel, liquid, tablet, and powder forms of each type of detergent. In the detergent, it helps strengthen the cleaning action.

Sodium tripolyphosphate is a strong cleaning ingredient that typically can rid dishes and fabrics of soil and spots. Its key function is that it allows surfactants to work at their full potential. Also, it prevents deposition of soil and acts as a pH buffer. It softens detergent water and can be used as a water treatment, as well. Many household cleaning products, including surface and toilet cleaners, contain STPP due to its cleaning component.

The uses of sodium tripolyphosphate also include using it as a preservative. It can be used to preserve foods such as red meats, poultry, and seafood, helping them to retain their tenderness and moisture. Pet food and animal feed have been known to be treated with STPP, serving the same general purpose as it does in human food. STPP also has been used in helping to preserve the quality of drinks such as milk and fruit juices.