Ferric Ammonium Citrate Amaris Chemicals

Ferric Ammonium Citrate

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Ferric Ammonium Citrate is a dark green to black crystalline or granular inorganic compound composed of iron, ammonium ions, and citrate ions. It is a complex salt of citric acid with ferric iron (Fe³⁺) and ammonium. This compound is highly soluble in water, forming a greenish solution, and is widely utilized as a source of iron in various chemical, pharmaceutical, photographic, and food applications. It acts as a mild oxidizing agent and an iron supplement, valued for its bioavailability and ease of incorporation into formulations. Ferric Ammonium Citrate is typically available in different formulations distinguished by their water and ammonium content, such as green and brown types.

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Categories: Coagulants and Flocculants, Nutraceutical Ingredients (pharmaceutical), Nutrient Supplements, Photographic Chemicals Tags: Ferric Ammonium Citrate, Food additive, Iron Supplement, Pharmaceutical ingredient, Water treatment chemical

Description

Table of Contents

Ferric Ammonium Citrate

Primary Uses

Medical and Pharmaceutical Industry
- Used as an iron supplement to treat iron deficiency anemia due to its bioavailable iron content.
- Incorporated in oral iron preparations and tonics.
- Utilized in wound healing preparations for its antiseptic properties.
Photography and Imaging
- Employed in photographic processes such as blueprinting (cyanotype) and iron-based photographic emulsions.
- Acts as a light-sensitive agent in various iron-citrate photographic materials.
Food Industry
- Used as a permitted food additive and colorant (E number E381) to provide iron fortification in foods and beverages.
- Helps prevent iron deficiency in fortified cereals, flours, and dietary supplements.
Chemical Industry
- Serves as a mild oxidizing agent and catalyst in various chemical syntheses and reactions.
- Used in dyeing and textile printing processes to fix colors.
Water Treatment
- Functions in water purification systems as a flocculant or coagulant aid.

Secondary Uses

Biological and Analytical Chemistry
- Utilized in staining procedures and as a reagent in biochemical assays for detecting iron or citrate.
Cosmetics
- Incorporated in some cosmetic formulations as a colorant and trace nutrient source.
Agriculture
- Occasionally used in foliar sprays or soil treatments to correct iron deficiency in plants.
Laboratory Uses

Used as a standard or reagent in research labs studying iron metabolism and oxidation-reduction reactions.

KEY PRODUCT FEATURES

1. Basic Identification Attributes

Chemical Name (IUPAC): Ammonium ferric citrate
Common/Trade Name: Ferric Ammonium Citrate
CAS Number: 603-71-0 (variable by hydrate form)
HS Code: 2833.29.00
Molecular Formula: Generally variable; common form approx. C6H8O7FeNH4
Synonyms: Ferric citrate ammonium salt, iron ammonium citrate

2. Physical & Chemical Properties

Physical State: Dark green to black crystalline granules or powder
Odor: Odorless to slight ammoniacal odor
Solubility: Highly soluble in water; insoluble in alcohol and organic solvents
Melting Point: Decomposes before melting, around 150–160°C (hydrated forms)
pH (aqueous solution): Approximately 3–5 (acidic)
Stability: Stable under normal conditions; sensitive to strong heat and light exposure which may cause degradation
Appearance in Solution: Forms clear green solutions

3. Safety & Hazard Attributes

Hazard Class (GHS): Not classified as hazardous but may cause eye and skin irritation
Toxicity: Low toxicity; ingestion in large quantities may cause gastrointestinal irritation or iron overload
Exposure Limits: No specific occupational exposure limits established; follow good industrial hygiene practices

4. Storage & Handling Attributes

Storage Conditions: Store in cool, dry, well-ventilated area, protected from light and moisture
Container Type: Sealed plastic or glass containers, drums or bags depending on quantity
Shelf Life: 12–24 months when stored properly
Handling Precautions: Avoid dust formation and inhalation; prevent contact with eyes and skin

5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes

FDA Status: Approved for use as a food additive and pharmaceutical ingredient
REACH Registration: Registered under EU chemical regulations
Food Additive Code: E381 (used as iron fortifier)
Compliance: Meets applicable standards for food-grade and pharmaceutical-grade materials

6. Environmental & Health Impact

Biodegradability: Readily biodegradable
Ecotoxicity: Low to moderate aquatic toxicity; avoid large releases to water bodies
Bioaccumulation: Not expected to bioaccumulate
Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: Not classified as carcinogenic or mutagenic

SAFETY HANDLING PRECAUTIONS

Safety Handling Precautions

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

- Gloves (nitrile or latex)
- Safety goggles or face shield
- Lab coat or protective clothing
- Dust mask or respirator if powder is handled in dusty conditions

Handling Guidelines:

- Use in well-ventilated areas
- Avoid inhaling dust or aerosols
- Prevent skin and eye contact
- Minimize dust formation

Storage Measures:

- Keep containers tightly closed
- Store away from incompatible substances such as strong oxidizers and bases
- Protect from moisture and direct sunlight