Tricalcium phosphate
Description
Tricalcium phosphate (CAS 7758-87-4), also known as TCP and approved as E341iii in food applications, is an inorganic calcium salt used across food manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and construction.
It functions primarily as an anti-caking agent, pH buffer, mineral supplement, and flow aid depending on the application. In food and nutraceutical manufacturing, TCP prevents clumping in powdered products.
This includes table salt, spice blends, and protein supplements while simultaneously delivering a bioavailable calcium source. Pharmaceutical formulators use it as a tablet excipient and calcium supplement active.
Its buffering capacity supports consistent dosage form performance. In animal feed, TCP supplies phosphorus and calcium to support bone development in livestock and poultry, meeting nutritional specifications.
Construction and industrial applications include use as a flame retardant additive and filler component in specialty materials. Tricalcium phosphate is supplied as a white free-flowing powder.
Established specifications include FCC, USP, and Ph. Eur. grades for pharmaceutical and food applications, with technical grade available for industrial use.
Bulk quantities are standard for feed and industrial buyers, with smaller packaging available for pharmaceutical and food-grade procurement. This ensures versatility across various supply chain requirements.
Physical Properties
| Melting Point | 1670 °C |
| Density | 3.14 g/cm³ |
| Appearance | white powder |
| Color | White |
| Odor | Odorless |
| Form | aqueous suspension |
| Water Solubility | 0.1 g/L (25 ºC) |
| Refractive Index | 1.63 |
| pH | 6-8 (50g/l, H2O, 20°C) suspension |
| Log P | -2.15 |
Safety & Handling (Learn More)
Trade & Regulatory
| HS Code | 2835 26 00 |
| Storage Class | 11 - Combustible Solids |
| WGK (Germany) | 3 |
Documentation
Other Names
tricalcium orthophosphate|tertiary calcium phosphate|E341iii|calcium phosphate tribasic|calcium orthophosphate|Ca3(PO4)2|bone phosphate of lime|TCP
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