TSPP is odourless, white powder or granules, which comes in different grades. Tetrasodium pyrophosphate also called Sodium pyrophosphate is used in many applications as a buffering agent, an emulsifier, a dispersing agent, a thickening agent, general sequestering agent, chelating agent in antimicrobial studies, and in the food industry as a nutrient, dietary supplement and texturier in food additive.
It also acts as a tartar control agent in toothpaste and dental floss. It helps remove calcium and magnesium from salvia; preventing their deposition on your teeth. It is also found in commercial dental rinses use to aid in plaque reduction.
In water treatment processes; TSPP sequesters calcium and magnesium ions, preventing scales formation in pipes and boilers.
Pyrophosphates as stated by Considine (Food and Food Production Encylopedia) are good sequestrants for copper and iron, which often catalyze oxidation in fruits and vegetables. It is also used as a food additive in common foods such as chicken nuggets, crab meat, canned tuna, soy-based meat alternatives for those with a vegan diet and in marshmallows and pudding.
Other than human application it also plays an integral role for cat foods and treats by serving as a palatability enhancer.
TSPP is used in cleaning compounds for the metal finishing industry. It is used on oil well drilling rigs for cleaning the mud off the equipment. It has excellent applications in rust removal, ink erasers, and electrodeposition on metals. It is also used as a water softener, wool de-fatting agent, soap and synthetic detergent builder, and general sequestering agent. It is also used as a dispersant in ceramics and paints.
