Description

Monoammonium Phosphate ( MAP)
Ammonium phosphate is the salt of ammonia and phosphoric acid. It has the formula (NH4)3PO4 and consists of ammonium cations and phosphate anion. It is obtained as a crystalline powder upon mixing concentrated solutions of ammonia and phosphoric acid, or on the addition of excess of ammonia to the acid phosphate (NH4)2(HPO4). It is soluble in water, and the aqueous solution on boiling loses ammonia and the acid phosphate (NH4)(H2PO4) is formed.
Ammonium phosphate is used as an ingredient in some fertilizers as a high source of elemental nitrogen. It is also used as a flame retardant in thermoplastic compositions. It is also used in bread making to promote the growth of the yeast.