Main Function:
It acts primarily as an acidic leavening agent (releasing carbon dioxide in baking) and a flocculant/astringent in industrial uses.
Applications:
- Baking: A common component of double-acting baking powders, where it reacts slowly with baking soda to release carbon dioxide for dough rise during baking.
- Water Treatment: Used as a flocculant to set impurities in water, aiding in their removal.
- Paper Manufacturing: Employed as a sizing agent to improve paper's resistance to liquid penetration.
- Deodorants/Antiperspirants: Functions as an astringent to reduce sweat and odor.
- Dyeing: Used as a mordant in textile dyeing to help dyes adhere to fabrics.