Ammonium Carbonate, commonly known as baker’s ammonia or hartshorn, is an inorganic compound widely used as a leavening agent in food production, as well as in pharmaceutical and industrial applications. This versatile compound decomposes into ammonia, carbon dioxide, and water when heated, making it especially effective in low-moisture baked goods and specialty formulations.
Ammonium Carbonate is typically supplied in solid form and is available in bulk quantities, as well as bags, drums, and custom packaging options depending on application requirements.
Contact The Chemical Company for current packaging options, lead times and supply chain updates.
Ammonium Carbonate is a white, crystalline solid composed of a mixture of ammonium bicarbonate and ammonium carbamate with the molecular formula (NH4)2CO3. It has a strong ammonia odor and is highly soluble in water. Historically derived from the distillation of animal horn and hoof (hence the name “hartshorn”), modern ammonium carbonate is produced synthetically through controlled chemical processes.
When heated, ammonium carbonate decomposes into ammonia gas, carbon dioxide, and water vapor. This unique property makes it particularly valuable as a leavening agent in thin baked goods, where gases can escape quickly and leave behind a light, crisp texture.
In addition to food applications, ammonium carbonate is used in pharmaceuticals, laboratory reagents, and industrial processes requiring a volatile alkaline compound. Its ability to release ammonia also makes it useful in certain cleaning formulations and chemical reactions.
Ammonium Carbonate is used across several industries and applications, including:
Its rapid decomposition and gas release make it particularly effective in applications requiring aeration without residual additives.
Ammonium Carbonate is available in a range of packaging formats to meet your operational needs:
Custom packaging and supply solutions are available based on your application and volume requirements.
Ammonium Carbonate is commonly used as a leavening agent in baked goods such as cookies, crackers, and flatbreads. It is also used in pharmaceutical formulations, laboratory reagents, and certain industrial applications.
Yes. Ammonium Carbonate is commonly known as baker’s ammonia and is also referred to as hartshorn.
The CAS number for Ammonium Carbonate is 506-87-6.
Ammonium Carbonate is used in baking because it decomposes during heating and releases ammonia and carbon dioxide, helping create a light, crisp texture in thin baked goods.
Ammonium Carbonate is generally best suited for low-moisture, thin baked goods. It is usually not recommended for cakes or thicker products because the ammonia may not fully dissipate during baking.
Ammonium Carbonate is typically available in bags, drums, and bulk quantities depending on your volume and application requirements.
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