Sodium Bicarbonate (NaHCO₃) 144-55-8

Sodium Bicarbonate (NaHCO₃), commonly known as baking soda or bicarbonate of soda, is a white crystalline powder with a molecular weight of 84.01 g/mol. It is amphoteric, reacting with both acids and bases, and decomposes at temperatures above 50°C to release carbon dioxide gas. It is produced primarily through the Solvay process and is used globally in food, pharmaceuticals, animal feed, and industrial applications.

Yes, sodium bicarbonate is the scientific name for baking soda. They are exactly the same compound (NaHCO₃). The term "baking soda" is the common household name, while "sodium bicarbonate" is used in industrial and scientific contexts. All grades share the same chemical identity but differ in purity and certification level depending on application.

In food applications, sodium bicarbonate is primarily used as a leavening agent in baked goods. When combined with acidic ingredients such as buttermilk, yogurt, vinegar, or cream of tartar, it releases carbon dioxide gas that makes dough rise. It is also used as an acidity regulator, a component of baking powder, and in effervescent beverage formulations. Food-grade sodium bicarbonate meets FCC standards.

In flue gas treatment, sodium bicarbonate is injected into exhaust streams to neutralize acid gases including sulfur dioxide, hydrogen chloride, and hydrogen fluoride. The bicarbonate decomposes at the elevated temperatures in the flue, releasing sodium carbonate and CO₂. The sodium carbonate then reacts with acid gases to form neutral salts that are captured in downstream particulate collection equipment. This is a widely used dry sorbent injection technology for industrial emission control.

Food grade (FCC) is suitable for human consumption in baking and food processing. Pharmaceutical grade (USP/BP/EP) meets stricter purity and testing requirements for use as an active pharmaceutical ingredient in antacids and other medications. Industrial grade may have slightly lower purity and is intended for technical applications such as flue gas treatment, cleaning products, and manufacturing. XRD Chemical supplies all three grades with appropriate documentation.