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Trisodium Phosphate (TSP) Supplier

White crystalline or powder, melting point 1340℃, relative density 2.536g/cm3, easily soluble in water, but insoluble in alcohol, its water solution is slightly alkaline.
  • 7601-54-9

  • Na3O4P

  • 163.940671

  • 231-509-8

Availability:

Product Description

What Is Trisodium Phosphate?

Trisodium Phosphate, commonly abbreviated as TSP, is a strongly alkaline inorganic phosphate salt used in industrial cleaning, water treatment, detergent formulations, metal-surface preparation and other manufacturing processes.

The anhydrous form has the chemical formula Na3PO4 and CAS No. 7601-54-9. Commercial TSP is also available in hydrated forms, especially Trisodium Phosphate Dodecahydrate, Na3PO4·12H2O, CAS No. 10101-89-0.

Buyers should identify the required form before requesting a quotation because anhydrous and dodecahydrate TSP have different molecular weights, phosphate contents, bulk densities and assay calculations.

Is Trisodium Phosphate Organic or Inorganic?

Trisodium Phosphate is an inorganic chemical. It consists of sodium ions and the inorganic phosphate ion and contains no carbon-based organic structure.

The recommended commercial classification is:

Classification

Recommended Category

Organic or inorganic

Inorganic chemical

Chemical family

Sodium orthophosphate

Product category

Industrial inorganic phosphate

Commercial function

Alkaline builder, buffer and processing raw material

Fine chemical or intermediate

Generally neither; primarily an industrial formulation raw material

Common grades

Technical, food and reagent grades

Although reagent-grade and specialty-purity products may be sold through fine-chemical channels, standard industrial TSP is normally categorized as an inorganic phosphate raw material rather than a fine chemical.

Which Form of Trisodium Phosphate Do You Need?

Trisodium Phosphate Anhydrous

Anhydrous TSP contains no intentional water of crystallization. It provides a higher active phosphate concentration per kilogram and is commonly supplied as a white powder or granular solid.

Property

Anhydrous TSP

Formula

Na3PO4

CAS number

7601-54-9

Molecular weight

163.94 g/mol

Typical appearance

White powder or granules

Active concentration

Higher per kilogram

Common applications

Detergents, industrial cleaning, water treatment and chemical processing

Trisodium Phosphate Dodecahydrate

The dodecahydrate contains twelve molecules of crystallization water. It is commonly supplied as white crystals or crystalline powder.

Property

TSP Dodecahydrate

Formula

Na3PO4·12H2O

CAS number

10101-89-0

Molecular weight

380.12 g/mol

Typical appearance

White crystals or crystalline powder

Water of crystallization

Twelve molecules

Common applications

Cleaning, water treatment, textiles, processing and selected regulated uses

Because the dodecahydrate can lose crystallization water under dry or warm storage conditions, its physical appearance and analytical assay can change. Storage and test methods should therefore be agreed with the supplier.

Trisodium Phosphate at a Glance

Property

Product Information

Product name

Trisodium Phosphate

Abbreviation

TSP

Alternative names

Sodium Phosphate Tribasic; Trisodium Orthophosphate

Chemical family

Inorganic phosphate

Appearance

White powder, granules or crystals

Odor

Odorless

Water solubility

Soluble

Solution character

Strongly alkaline

Typical 1% solution pH

Approximately 11.5–12.5

Flammability

Nonflammable

Primary functions

Alkaline builder, buffer, cleaner and water-conditioning agent

Values are general reference information. The current specification, TDS, SDS and batch COA should be used for purchasing and process decisions.

Typical Trisodium Phosphate Specifications

Specifications must identify whether the product is anhydrous or dodecahydrate and explain the basis on which the assay is calculated.

Typical Industrial-Grade Anhydrous TSP

Test Item

Common Commercial Target

Appearance

White powder or granules

Trisodium phosphate

≥97.0–98.0%, on the declared basis

P2O5

Confirm with supplier

Water-insoluble matter

≤0.10%

Sulfate

Buyer-specific limit

Free alkali

Buyer-specific limit

pH of 1% solution

Approximately 11.5–12.5

Iron and heavy metals

According to grade

Typical Industrial-Grade TSP Dodecahydrate

Test Item

Common Commercial Target

Appearance

White crystals or crystalline powder

Assay

≥98.0%, on the declared hydrate basis

P2O5

Commonly ≥18.3%

Water-insoluble matter

≤0.10%

Sulfate

Commonly ≤0.50%

pH of 1% solution

Approximately 11.5–12.5

Heavy metals

According to grade and application

These are general commercial reference values, not AOZUN’s binding sales specification. The agreed specification and batch-specific COA supplied with the quotation take precedence.

Why Must the Assay Basis Be Confirmed?

Anhydrous TSP and TSP dodecahydrate cannot be compared using the percentage number alone.

A specification may report:

  • Na3PO4 content as received

  • Na3PO4 calculated on a dried basis

  • Na3PO4 calculated on an ignited basis

  • Na3PO4·12H2O content

  • P2O5 content

  • Loss on drying or loss on ignition

A high assay number does not necessarily mean that one product contains more usable phosphate than another. Buyers should request the analytical basis, test method and hydrate form before comparing quotations.

How Does Trisodium Phosphate Work?

When dissolved in water, Trisodium Phosphate produces a strongly alkaline solution. This alkalinity helps loosen soils, disperse oily residues and support the performance of surfactants. Phosphate ions can also interact with calcium, magnesium and selected metal ions, which explains TSP’s use in water conditioning and certain treatment processes.

Trisodium phosphate dosing system for alkaline cleaning, metal degreasing and water treatment testing

Alkaline Cleaning and Degreasing

TSP raises the solution pH and helps break the attachment between oily soil and a surface. In formulated cleaners, it can improve wetting, soil suspension and surfactant efficiency.

Actual performance depends on concentration, temperature, contact time, surfactant selection, water hardness and the material being cleaned.

Water Hardness and Metal Ions

Phosphate can react with calcium and magnesium ions to form less soluble phosphate compounds. This can reduce hardness interference but may also generate precipitated solids.

The process must be designed to control:

  • Chemical dosage

  • pH

  • Mixing

  • Settling or filtration

  • Sludge production

  • Phosphate concentration in discharged water

Buffering and pH Control

TSP may be used to establish or maintain alkaline operating conditions. However, it should not be dosed solely from a theoretical calculation. Laboratory testing, process-water analysis and controlled dosing are recommended.

Main Applications of Trisodium Phosphate

Industrial Cleaners and Degreasers

TSP is used as an alkaline builder in heavy-duty cleaning formulations for removing oil, grease and process residues.

Typical applications include:

  • Industrial floor cleaners

  • Machinery and equipment cleaners

  • Workshop degreasers

  • Pre-paint cleaning products

  • Detergent and scouring formulations

  • Institutional cleaning systems

TSP is not compatible with every surface. High-pH solutions may attack aluminum, zinc, certain coatings and other alkali-sensitive materials. A compatibility test should be completed before use.

Metal Surface Preparation

TSP-containing solutions may be used to remove oil and contamination before painting, coating, phosphating or other surface treatments.

Cleaning performance should be validated against the substrate, existing coating and subsequent finishing process.

Water Treatment

Technical-grade TSP may be used for:

  • pH adjustment

  • Water softening

  • Hardness precipitation

  • Boiler-water treatment

  • Scale-control programs

  • Selected corrosion-control processes

Water-treatment use must be designed by qualified personnel. Incorrect phosphate dosage can cause deposits, sludge, carryover or discharge-compliance problems.

Detergent Formulations

TSP can function as a detergent builder by increasing alkalinity, reducing hardness interference and supporting soil removal.

Phosphate content in detergents is restricted in some countries and application categories. Buyers should check destination-market requirements before selecting TSP for a detergent formulation.

Pulp, Paper and Textile Processing

Trisodium Phosphate may be used for alkaline processing, cleaning, scouring, pH adjustment or water conditioning in selected pulp, paper and textile operations.

Leather and Other Industrial Processing

Selected leather, ceramic and general manufacturing processes may use TSP where alkaline phosphate functionality is required. Pilot testing is recommended before introducing it into an existing production line.

Food Processing Applications

Food-grade Trisodium Phosphate may be used as an acidity regulator, buffer, emulsifying salt or processing aid where permitted. It is associated with the food-additive designation E339(iii) in relevant markets.

Only a specifically manufactured and documented food-grade product may be used in food processing. Industrial-grade TSP must not be used as a substitute for food-grade material.

Buyers must specify:

  • Intended food application

  • Destination country

  • Required food standard

  • Heavy-metal limits

  • Microbiological requirements, if applicable

  • Allergen, GMO, Halal or Kosher documentation, when required

TSP vs STPP vs TSPP

These three abbreviations describe different chemicals and must not be used interchangeably.

Product

Full Name

Formula

Main Difference

TSP

Trisodium Phosphate

Na3PO4

Orthophosphate; strongly alkaline

STPP

Sodium Tripolyphosphate

Na5P3O10

Condensed phosphate used as a builder and sequestrant

TSPP

Tetrasodium Pyrophosphate

Na4P2O7

Pyrophosphate used for buffering, dispersion and sequestration

Using the wrong abbreviation can result in incorrect quotations, formulations and shipping documents. Always include the complete chemical name, formula and CAS number on an RFQ.

Trisodium Phosphate vs Disodium Phosphate

Trisodium Phosphate is more alkaline than Disodium Phosphate.

TSP is commonly selected for strong alkalinity, cleaning and industrial water-treatment functions. Disodium Phosphate is often selected where more moderate buffering is required.

They should not be substituted without evaluating:

  • Solution pH

  • Sodium and phosphate contribution

  • Buffer capacity

  • Solubility

  • Food or process regulations

  • Final formulation performance

How Should Buyers Select a TSP Grade?

Confirm the Hydrate Form

State whether the requirement is for anhydrous TSP or TSP dodecahydrate. Include the relevant CAS number whenever possible.

Confirm the Application Grade

Select technical grade for general industrial applications, food grade for regulated food production and reagent grade for analytical or laboratory work.

One grade should not be assumed to meet the requirements of another.

Compare the Full Specification

Review:

  • Assay and calculation basis

  • P2O5 content

  • Loss on drying or ignition

  • Water-insoluble matter

  • Free alkalinity

  • Sulfate and chloride

  • Iron

  • Arsenic and heavy metals

  • Particle size

  • Bulk density

  • pH

  • Food or regulatory compliance

Review Dissolution Performance

Particle size, hydrate form and storage history may affect dissolution speed, caking and powder handling. Buyers should conduct production trials when changing grade or supplier.

Packaging and Storage

TSP is commonly supplied in moisture-resistant bags with an inner liner. Other packaging options may be available according to quantity, grade and destination.

Recommended storage practices include:

  • Store in a cool, dry and well-ventilated area.

  • Keep packaging tightly closed.

  • Protect the product from moisture and contamination.

  • Keep away from acids and incompatible materials.

  • Use clean, dry handling equipment.

  • Follow first-in, first-out inventory management.

  • Avoid stacking or handling practices that can damage the inner liner.

Anhydrous TSP may absorb moisture. Dodecahydrate material may lose crystallization water under dry or warm conditions. Both changes can affect flow, caking and assay results.

Safety and Handling

Trisodium Phosphate is nonflammable, but its alkaline dust and solutions can irritate or damage the eyes, skin and respiratory tract. Hazard classification may vary with product form, concentration and jurisdiction.

Appropriate controls may include:

  • Dust extraction or local ventilation

  • Chemical-resistant gloves

  • Safety goggles

  • Protective work clothing

  • Respiratory protection based on a workplace assessment

  • Enclosed or low-dust transfer methods

  • Accessible eyewash and emergency washing facilities

Avoid generating airborne dust. When preparing a solution, follow the approved site procedure and add the product gradually under controlled agitation.

Do not mix TSP with acids or other chemicals unless the reaction, temperature rise and compatibility have been evaluated.

The current supplier SDS must be reviewed before handling.

Environmental and Wastewater Considerations

Phosphate released into surface water can contribute to nutrient loading and eutrophication. Some regions restrict phosphate concentrations in detergents, industrial wastewater or cleaning products.

Before using TSP, facilities should evaluate:

  • Local phosphate-discharge limits

  • Wastewater-treatment capacity

  • Precipitated-sludge handling

  • Rinse-water volume

  • Possibility of phosphate recovery or recycling

  • Availability of lower-phosphate alternatives

TSP-containing wastewater should not be discharged without confirming applicable permits and treatment requirements.

Transportation Information

Many commercial TSP grades are not regulated as dangerous goods for standard transportation. However, classification can differ according to composition, concentration, packaging, jurisdiction and transport mode.

The current SDS and transport documents for the supplied grade must be checked before shipment. Do not assign a UN number solely from information on a generic webpage.

What Documents Should a TSP Supplier Provide?

Professional buyers should request:

  • Batch-specific Certificate of Analysis

  • Current Safety Data Sheet

  • Technical Data Sheet

  • Agreed product specification

  • Hydrate-form declaration

  • Assay calculation basis

  • Packing list and commercial invoice

  • Country-of-origin documentation when required

  • Regulatory declarations for the destination market

  • Food-grade or reagent-grade documentation when applicable

  • Halal, Kosher or other certificates when contractually required

Why Source Trisodium Phosphate from AOZUN?

AOZUN supplies Trisodium Phosphate for industrial cleaning, water treatment, detergent and manufacturing applications. Product form, grade, specification and documentation are confirmed before order placement.

Our supply support includes:

  • Anhydrous and hydrated grades subject to availability

  • Technical-grade and application-specific sourcing

  • Batch COA and current SDS

  • Specification review before shipment

  • Moisture-resistant export packaging

  • International logistics documentation

  • Commercial support for samples and repeat orders

Food-grade availability and compliance documents must be separately confirmed in the formal quotation.

Information to Include in Your RFQ

For a faster quotation, please provide:

  1. Full product name

  2. Required hydrate form

  3. CAS number

  4. Required grade

  5. Specification or end use

  6. Required quantity

  7. Preferred packaging

  8. Destination port or address

  9. Required compliance documents

  10. Expected delivery date

For water-treatment applications, include the water analysis and process objective where possible. AOZUN cannot recommend a safe dosage based only on the total order quantity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Trisodium Phosphate used for?

TSP is used in industrial cleaning, degreasing, detergent formulations, metal-surface preparation, water treatment, textiles, paper processing and selected regulated food applications.

Is Trisodium Phosphate organic or inorganic?

It is an inorganic sodium phosphate salt.

Is Trisodium Phosphate a fine chemical?

Standard industrial TSP is normally classified as an inorganic industrial chemical or formulation raw material, not a fine chemical.

What is the CAS number of Trisodium Phosphate?

Anhydrous TSP is commonly identified by CAS No. 7601-54-9. Trisodium Phosphate Dodecahydrate is identified by CAS No. 10101-89-0.

Is TSP the same as STPP?

No. TSP is Trisodium Phosphate, Na3PO4. STPP is Sodium Tripolyphosphate, Na5P3O10. They have different structures, properties and applications.

Is TSP the same as TSPP?

No. TSPP means Tetrasodium Pyrophosphate, Na4P2O7. It should not be confused with Trisodium Phosphate.

Is Trisodium Phosphate flammable?

No. TSP is an inorganic, nonflammable solid. Its primary handling concern is its alkaline and irritating character rather than fire risk.

Can industrial-grade TSP be used in food?

No. Food applications require a specifically manufactured food-grade product that complies with the destination market’s purity and contaminant requirements.

What is the difference between anhydrous and dodecahydrate TSP?

Anhydrous TSP contains more active Na3PO4 per kilogram. Dodecahydrate TSP contains twelve molecules of crystallization water and therefore has a higher molecular weight and lower phosphate concentration per kilogram.

What is the correct TSP dosage for water treatment?

There is no universal dosage. It depends on water hardness, alkalinity, pH, metal-ion concentration, temperature and the treatment objective. Bench testing and qualified process design are required.

Request a Trisodium Phosphate Quote

Looking for Trisodium Phosphate for industrial cleaning, water treatment, detergent production or manufacturing?

Contact AOZUN with the required hydrate form, grade, quantity, specification, packaging and destination. Our team will confirm availability, documentation, lead time and commercial terms.

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