Sodium Citrate: Buffer, Chelating Agent and Flavour Modulator
Sodium citrate (trisodium citrate dihydrate) is the sodium salt of citric acid, widely used in pharmaceutical, food, and biomedical applications. It is a physiologically compatible buffer that maintains pH in the range of 3.0–6.5 and acts as an anticoagulant by chelating calcium ions. Its clean, slightly saline-sour taste also makes it useful as a flavour modifier in oral formulations.
Product Profile
| CAS Number | 6132-04-3 (dihydrate) / 68-04-2 (anhydrous) |
|---|---|
| Molecular Formula | Na₃C₆H₅O₇·2H₂O |
| Appearance | White granular crystals or crystalline powder |
| Function | Buffer / chelating agent / anticoagulant / flavour modifier |
| Typical Use Level | 0.3–2.0% as buffer in oral and parenteral formulations |
| Compendial Grade | EP / USP-NF |
Formulation Applications
Sodium citrate is the standard anticoagulant in blood collection tubes (typically at 3.2% or 3.8% concentration) where it chelates calcium to prevent clotting. In pharmaceutical formulations, citrate buffers maintain stable pH in oral solutions, syrups, and parenteral products. Combined with citric acid, it forms the classic citrate buffer system used across a broad pH range. In effervescent tablets, it contributes to the acid-base couple alongside citric acid. The food industry uses it extensively as an emulsifying salt in processed cheese, as an acidity regulator, and as a sequestrant to prevent discolouration.
Why Source from TCS
TCS supplies Sodium Citrate in pharmaceutical and food grades to formulators across Europe. Available in standard packaging with flexible quantities for R&D through production scale. Contact us with your application and volume requirements.
FAQ
What information should be included in an inquiry for Sodium Citrate –6132-04-3?
A useful inquiry normally includes the product name, target application, estimated quantity, destination market, and any specific documentation or packaging requests.
How is Sodium Citrate –6132-04-3 usually evaluated for sourcing?
This product is positioned for excipient sourcing where formulation fit, dosage form, handling, and repeat purchasing requirements need to be reviewed together with commercial supply conditions.
What documentation and commercial points are commonly reviewed before buying Sodium Citrate –6132-04-3?
For excipient sourcing, teams usually discuss the intended dosage form, formulation role, packaging format, order volume, and the routine documentation needed for qualification and purchasing.
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