
THE STORY OF AMMONIUM BI CARBONATE
Ammonium Bicarbonate: The Functional Gas-Releasing Agent
Ammonium Bicarbonate is a white, odorless, crystalline powder widely used as a chemical leavening, buffering, and pH-regulating agent. Known for its clean decomposition profile, it releases carbon dioxide when heated — making it valuable in food, cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and industrial applications.
Purified Through Controlled Chemical Reaction
Ammonium Bicarbonate is produced by reacting purified ammonia with carbon dioxide under controlled temperature and pressure. The resulting product is filtered, dried, and sieved to achieve consistent particle size, stability, and purity — meeting both industrial and cosmetic ingredient standards.
pH Buffering, Deodorizing & Gas-Release Functionality
In cosmetic and personal-care formulations, Ammonium Bicarbonate functions as:
✅ A pH adjusting and buffering ingredient
✅ A mild gas-release agent for effervescent or aerated systems
✅ An odor-neutralizing additive in deodorant and foot-care products
✅ A temporary skin-feel enhancer via micro-bubble formation
It is used in bath bombs, dry shampoos, cleansing powders, exfoliating scrubs, and water-activated skincare.
Stable, Easy to Handle & Compliant
Recommended usage: 0.5–5% depending on formulation type and gas-release requirement.
Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from heat and acids.
Decomposes cleanly into carbon dioxide, water, and ammonia on heating.
Non-toxic, non-flammable, and approved for cosmetic, food, and technical grades under global regulatory standards.
Formulator’s Queries, We Answered
1. What is Ammonium Bicarbonate?
Ammonium Bicarbonate is an inorganic salt with the chemical formula NH₄HCO₃. It appears as a white crystalline powder and is known for its mild alkaline properties. In personal care products, it functions primarily as a pH regulator, helping to maintain the desired acidity or alkalinity of formulations.​
2. What are the CAS Number and INCI Name of Ammonium Bicarbonate?
CAS Number: 1066-33-7
INCI Name: Ammonium Bicarbonate
3. What are the benefits of using Ammonium Bicarbonate in personal care products?
Ammonium Bicarbonate offers several advantages in cosmetic formulations:
pH Regulation : It stabilizes the pH of products, ensuring optimal performance and shelf-life.
Mild Alkalinity: Provides a gentle alkaline environment, beneficial in certain skincare and haircare applications.
Decomposition : Upon heating, it decomposes into ammonia, carbon dioxide, and water, which can be advantageous in specific formulation processes.
4. What are the common applications of Ammonium Bicarbonate in personal care?
Ammonium Bicarbonate is utilized in various personal care products, including:
Hair Styling Products : Used in formulations like gels and mousses to aid in pH balance.
Skin Creams and Lotions : Helps maintain the stability and efficacy of emulsions.
Facial Cleansers : Assists in achieving the desired pH for effective cleansing.
Bath Products : Contributes to the effervescence and pH adjustment in bath bombs and salts.
5. Is Ammonium Bicarbonate safe for use in personal care products?
Yes, Ammonium Bicarbonate is generally recognized as safe for use in cosmetics and personal care products when used within recommended concentrations. It has been evaluated and approved by various regulatory bodies for specific applications. However, as with all ingredients, it should be used according to industry guidelines to ensure consumer safety.
6. Can Ammonium Bicarbonate cause skin irritation?
Ammonium Bicarbonate is typically non-irritating when used appropriately in formulations. However, individuals with sensitive skin or specific allergies should perform a patch test before widespread use. In its raw form, it can be an irritant to the skin, eyes, and respiratory system; thus, proper handling during manufacturing is essential.
7. Is Ammonium Bicarbonate environmentally friendly?
Ammonium Bicarbonate decomposes into naturally occurring substances—ammonia, carbon dioxide, and water—making it relatively benign in terms of environmental impact. However, excessive release into the environment should be avoided to prevent potential ecological imbalances.
8. Are there alternatives to Ammonium Bicarbonate in personal care products?
Yes, alternatives include:
Sodium Bicarbonate : Commonly used as a pH adjuster and mild abrasive.
Potassium Bicarbonate : Functions similarly in pH regulation.
Organic Acids (e.g., Citric Acid): Used for pH adjustment and as chelating agents.