Description
Sodium gluconate is the sodium salt of gluconic acid, produced by the fermentation of glucose. It is widely recognized as a non-toxic, biodegradable, and highly efficient chelating agent. This compound appears as a white crystalline powder, but it is also available in granule and liquid forms. It is odorless, non-corrosive, and soluble in water, making it suitable for a variety of industrial and commercial applications.
Sodium gluconate is known for its ability to form stable complexes with metal ions, especially calcium, iron, copper, and aluminum. It performs exceptionally well in alkaline environments, which makes it ideal for applications where traditional chelating agents fail. In construction, it is used as a concrete set retarder and plasticizer. In cleaning products, it boosts the efficiency of detergents and prevents hard water scale formation. The food and cosmetic industries also use it for its chelating and stabilizing properties.
Chemical Properties
Chemical Name: Sodium Gluconate
Synonyms: Gluconic acid sodium salt, E576
Molecular Formula: C₆H₁₁NaO₇
Molecular Weight: 218.14 g/mol
CAS Number: 527-07-1
EC Number: 208-407-7
Appearance: White crystalline powder, granules, or aqueous solution
Odor: Odorless
Solubility: Highly soluble in water
Density: ~1.68 g/cm³
pH (10% solution): 6.5–8.5
Melting Point: Decomposes above 160°C
Biodegradability: Readily biodegradable
Available Forms: Powder, granules, liquid
Regulatory Compliance: REACH, GHS, FDA (E576), EFSA
Applications
Construction Chemicals: Concrete set retarder and water reducer
Detergents & Cleaners: Hard water softener and scale inhibitor
Food Industry: Preservative and mineral stabilizer (E576)
Cosmetics & Personal Care: Chelating and stabilizing agent
Textiles: Dye bath stabilizer and water softening agent
Metal Surface Treatment: Corrosion inhibitor and cleaning enhancer
Industries of Use
Construction & Building Materials:
Sodium gluconate delays the setting time of concrete and improves workability without reducing final strength. It also helps reduce water demand in concrete mixtures.
Household & Industrial Cleaning:
It enhances detergent efficiency by binding calcium and magnesium ions. Its biodegradability makes it ideal for eco-conscious cleaning formulations.
Food & Beverage Industry:
Used as a food additive under code E576, it stabilizes minerals and prevents oxidation, especially in dairy, canned vegetables, and beverages.
Personal Care & Cosmetics:
Sodium gluconate stabilizes emulsions and prevents metal ion interactions in shampoos, creams, and lotions.
Textile Processing:
Used to improve dye uptake and stability by eliminating interfering metal ions from dye baths.
Storage Conditions
Store in a tightly sealed container in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area.
Protect from humidity, strong acids, and direct sunlight.
Packaging
20 L HDPE drum (liquid form)
200 L HDPE barrel (liquid form)
25 kg bags (powder or granules)
Safety & Handling
Use gloves and goggles during handling.
Avoid contact with eyes and prolonged skin exposure.
Ensure proper ventilation and handle according to local chemical safety guidelines.
