Sodium hexametaphosphate?(SHMP) is a?salt?of composition Na6[(PO3)6].?Sodium hexametaphosphate of commerce is typically a mixture of metaphosphates (empirical formula: NaPO3), of which the hexamer is one, and is usually the compound referred to by this name. Such a mixture is more correctly termed sodium polymetaphosphate. They are white solids that dissolve in water.

Uses

SHMP is used as a?sequestrant?and has applications within a wide variety of industries, including as a?food additive?which is used under the?E number?E452i.?Sodium carbonate?is sometimes added to SHMP to raise the?pH?to 8.0?8.6, which produces a number of SHMP products used for?water softening?and?detergents.

A significant use for sodium hexametaphosphate is as a?deflocculant?in the production of clay-based?ceramic?particles.?It is also used as a dispersing agent to break down clay and other soil types for?soil texture?assessment.

It is used as an active ingredient in toothpaste as an anti-staining and tartar-prevention ingredient.

Food additive

As a food additive, SHMP is used as an?emulsifier. Artificial maple syrup, canned milk, cheese powders and dips, imitation cheese, whipped topping, packaged egg whites, roast beef, fish fillets, fruit jelly, frozen desserts, salad dressing, herring, breakfast cereal, ice cream, beer, and bottled drinks, among other foods, can contain SHMP.

Water softener salt

SHMP is used in Diamond Crystal brand Bright & Soft Salt Pellets for water softeners in a concentration of 0.03%. It is the only additive other than?sodium chloride.