Sodium trimetaphosphate

Sodium trimetaphosphate (CAS 7785-84-4), commonly abbreviated as STMP, is an inorganic cyclic phosphate salt used across food processing, water treatment, and industrial manufacturing.

It functions primarily as a crosslinking agent, chelating agent, and buffering compound, enabling formulators to modify texture, stabilize systems, and control mineral interactions.

In food processing, STMP crosslinks starch granules to improve heat and shear stability in canned goods, sauces, and instant food products. This ensures consistent viscosity and shelf stability.

Water treatment operations use it to sequester calcium and magnesium ions, preventing scale formation in distribution systems and industrial cooling circuits. This protects equipment from mineral buildup.

In textile and paper manufacturing, it acts as a dispersing and sequestering agent during processing baths. This helps to control metal ion interference that would otherwise degrade product quality.

Leather processing operations apply it as a buffering and chelating agent to regulate pH during tanning stages. This ensures uniform chemical penetration and high-quality leather finishes.

STMP is supplied as a white crystalline powder. Food-grade material is available to FCC specification, supporting use in regulated food and starch modification applications.

Technical-grade material is supplied for industrial uses in water treatment and textile processing where food compliance is not required. It remains a versatile chemical for diverse sectors.