Ammonium carbonate

Ammonium carbonate (CAS 506-87-6) is an inorganic salt commercially known as hartshorn or sal volatile, and approved as food additive E503(i). It decomposes readily on heating, releasing ammonia and carbon dioxide, which defines its functional behaviour across industrial applications.

In baked goods, this decomposition provides leavening without leaving residual salts, making it the preferred raising agent for flat, dry products such as crackers and traditional European biscuits. In personal care formulations it functions as a pH buffer and skin conditioner, while in chemical synthesis it serves as a mild catalyst and ammonia source in controlled-temperature reactions.

Ammonium carbonate is available in food-grade (FCC), pharmaceutical-grade (Ph.Eur.), and technical grades, supplied as crystalline powder or compressed lumps. It is registered under REACH and compliant with EU food additive regulation EC 1333/2008. Standard packaging includes 25 kg bags and fibreboard drums, with bulk options available on request.