What is Anhydrous Dibasic Calcium Phosphate?

Anhydrous dibasic calcium phosphate, also known as anhydrous DCP or ADCP, is a salt with the chemical formula CaHPO4. It is a calcium salt of phosphoric acid that does not contain water of crystallization. ADCP has a role as a leavening agent, buffer, nutrient, formulation aid, and abrasive in many applications.

Uses of ADCP
ADCP is extensively used as a leavening agent in baked goods. When combined with sodium bicarbonate or sodium aluminum sulfate, it produces carbon dioxide which acts as a lifting agent for dough and batter. This allows baked items like bread and cakes to rise and have a light, fluffy texture. ADCP also functions as a calcium and phosphorus supplement. It helps fortify foods with these important minerals. Some foods where ADCP can be found include instant noodles, breakfast cereals, pastries and snacks.

Role of Anhydrous Dibasic Calcium Phosphate in Pharmaceuticals
As a calcium supplement, ADCP is used in many antacids and calcium tablets. It helps neutralize stomach acid and provides the recommended daily intake of calcium. ADCP also acts as a calcium replenisher for conditions like osteoporosis. In pharmaceutical formulations, it serves as a pH buffer and assists in maintaining the right acidity level. ADCP is compatible with many active drug ingredients and does not interfere with their absorption. This makes it a suitable excipient for calcium-containing medications.

Applications in Agriculture
Farmers utilize ADCP as a fertilizer supplement. It releases calcium and phosphate slowly into the soil which are important macro nutrients for plant growth. ADCP increases the Anhydrous Dibasic Calcium Phosphate content of soil. This leads to healthier, more robust crops with higher yields. Livestock feed formulations also contain ADCP to meet the calcium and phosphorus dietary requirements of animals. Poultry, cattle and pigs fed ADCP enriched feed have better bone development and overall wellness.

Usage in Cleaning Products
The abrasive powder properties of ADCP make it useful as a scouring agent in cleaners. It works well for removing tough stains and built-up grime without scratching surfaces. ADCP is found in products like powdered dishwasher detergents, all-purpose cleansers, cream cleansers and toothpastes where a slight abrasiveness is needed along with active cleansing. Its mild abrasiveness is suitable for delicate items like cutlery and teeth.

How is Anhydrous Dibasic Calcium Phosphate Manufactured?
ADCP is commercially produced through a chemical reaction between calcium hydroxide and phosphoric acid in water. Calcium hydroxide (lime) and phosphoric acid in stoichiometric amounts are mixed together. Carbon dioxide is evolved as a byproduct precipitating anhydrous DCP as a fine powder. The powder is then filtered, washed, dried and milled to obtain the final ADCP product. Controlled reaction parameters and processing ensure high purity and consistency in performance.

Quality Standards for ADCP
As ADCP has applications in food, pharmaceuticals and consumer products that come in contact with humans, it has to adhere to strict quality standards. Parameters like heavy metal content, microbial limits and residue levels are tightly regulated. ADCP must be produced following current good manufacturing practices. It is classified as generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food applications. Key quality certifications for ADCP include ISO 22000, Kosher, Halal and organic which allow its usage. Suppliers and Pricing Trends Major global suppliers of high-quality food grade anhydrous dibasic calcium phosphate include Joshi Fine Chemicals, Lianyungang Debang Fine Chemical Co and Anmol Chemicals Group. Domestic manufacturers in India include Chemit Laboratories, Gadgil Petrochem and Prayon. ADCP prices fluctuate based on supply and demand forces. In 2021, average prices ranged from $1,500 to $2,500 per ton depending on quantity, purity level and packaging. Long term trends point to steady demand from food, pharma and personal care sectors keeping ADCP lucrative for producers.

Anhydrous dibasic calcium phosphate is a versatile calcium phosphate mineral with wide commercial relevance. Its multiple functional properties have made ADCP integral to formulated products across food, pharma, agriculture and cleaning industries. Robust global demand and importance in fortifying dietary requirements ensure anhydrous DCP will continue playing a vital role in many vital sectors of the economy. Proper production standards help guarantee its consistent high quality for safe usage.

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Ravina Pandya, Content Writer, has a strong foothold in the market research industry. She specializes in writing well-researched articles from different industries, including food and beverages, information and technology, healthcare, chemical and materials, etc. (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ravina-pandya-1a3984191)