Azodicarbonamide

Azodicarbonamide (CAS 123-77-3) is a synthetic chemical blowing agent and dough conditioner, commercially available under trade names including Celogen AZ and AZOFOAM E, and also referred to as azodiformamide or azodicarbamide. It carries no E-code designation in the EU, where its use as a food additive is not permitted.

In polymer and rubber processing, azodicarbonamide decomposes at temperatures between 195–215°C to release nitrogen, carbon dioxide, and carbon monoxide, generating a uniform closed-cell foam structure in PVC, polyolefins, and rubber compounds. In textile and flour treatment applications, it acts as an oxidising agent, modifying protein structures to improve dough rheology or fibre processing characteristics.

Azodicarbonamide is supplied as an orange crystalline powder in standard and fine-particle grades, with decomposition temperature variants available to suit specific processing windows. It falls under REACH registration requirements within the EU and is classified under HS code 29270000. Packaging is typically available in 25 kg bags.