Sodium phosphate tribasic dodecahydrate

Have you ever seen white crystals that “store” water? Sodium phosphate tribasic dodecahydrate is one such “water magician”. It's been creeping into our daily lives for a long time: it's behind the bright, shiny dishes in the dishwasher, in the more tender meat products in the food processing plant, and it's even in the formulation of some water softeners.
Chemically, it looks like trisodium phosphate (Na₃PO₄) embracing water molecules (12H₂O) in harmony. These water molecules are not simply attached, but form a stable structure through hydrogen bonding, as if the core molecules had been given a “water coat” to give the substance a crystal-like appearance. The water molecules give the substance its moisture-absorbing character in the air and make it more soluble in water.
Once it is in the arms of water, it rapidly releases phosphate ions (PO₄³-) and sodium ions (Na⁺). It is this phosphate that gives the solution its mild alkalinity (pH usually around 9-11), like the familiar soapy water. This mild alkalinity is the key to effectively “persuading” grease and dirt to leave the surface of the dishware and preventing the deposition of limescale minerals (calcium and magnesium ions).
However, when the washed water flows through city pipes and ends up in rivers and lakes, phosphates begin a different journey. They are essential nutrients for plant growth, but when they enter the water in excess, they act as a “super-fertilizer” for algae. Algae grows wildly and explosively, depleting the water of oxygen and blocking out sunlight, causing fish and shrimp to suffocate and die, and the water body turns green and stinks.
Despite the gradual popularization of modern phosphorus-free detergents, trisodium phosphate is still used in some industrial cleaning agents, boiler water treatment agents or specific formulations. Therefore, scientific treatment of phosphorus-containing wastewater and the promotion of phosphorus recycling technology are crucial to the protection of clear water.
Daily contact with Sodium phosphate tribasic dodecahydrate (e.g. dishwashing powder) is usually safe, but understanding its “character” is more secure to use! Safety: 
Mild Alkalinity Note: Its solution is mildly irritating to the skin and eyes; rinse with water promptly after contact and avoid prolonged contact.
Beware of breathing dust: When using powdered products, avoid breathing dust into the respiratory tract and maintain ventilation.
Food Compliance: Strict limits apply to the use as a quality improver in the food industry, so make sure you are legally compliant.
Sodium phosphate tribasic dodecahydrate, behind this seemingly complex list of chemical names, is the mundane power of life's stain removers and brighteners. When we understand its dual properties - a household helper and a potential environmental factor - we can enjoy its convenience while taking a more proactive role in protecting our water.

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