Sodium acetate - Hot ice (sodium acetate trihydrate)

NaCH₃COO 

Sodium acetate trihydrate (NaCH3COO·3H2O) is a chemical compound composed of sodium (Na), acetate (CH3COO), and water molecules (H2O). It appears as colorless crystals with a salty taste.

Sodium acetate trihydrate has various applications in different fields:

Food Industry: It is used as a food additive, primarily as a flavoring agent and preservative. Sodium acetate trihydrate can enhance the taste of certain foods and extend their shelf life. It is commonly found in snacks, sauces, dressings, and condiments.

Heating Pad/Warmers: Sodium acetate trihydrate is utilized in reusable heating pads or warmers. These pads contain a supersaturated solution of sodium acetate trihydrate, which can be triggered to crystallize and release heat when a metal disk within the pad is flexed or clicked. This exothermic reaction provides long-lasting warmth.

Chemical Reagent: Sodium acetate trihydrate is used as a reagent in various chemical reactions and processes. It can act as a buffering agent to maintain a stable pH in solutions. Additionally, it is employed in the synthesis of other organic compounds and in the production of dyes and pigments.

Medical Applications: Sodium acetate trihydrate has some medical uses. It can be used as an electrolyte replenisher in intravenous fluids to restore electrolyte balance in patients. It is also used in hemodialysis and as an ingredient in certain medical solutions.

Laboratory Applications: Sodium acetate trihydrate finds utility in laboratories for various purposes. It can be used as a common reagent in chemical reactions, as a pH regulator, and as a component of buffer solutions.

Deicing Agent: Sodium acetate trihydrate can be used as an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional deicing agents. It helps to melt ice and snow on roads and sidewalks, preventing accidents and improving traction.

Overall, sodium acetate trihydrate is a versatile compound with applications in the food industry, heating pads, chemical synthesis, medical field, laboratory settings, and deicing agents.

More about Sodium acetate in Wikipedia 

Formula: NaCH₃COO · 3H₂O

Molar mass: 82.034 g/mol
Form: White deliquescent powder
CAS Number: 6131-90-4
EC Number: 204-823-8
E Number: E262
Density: 1.45 g/cm³
Synonyms: Hot ice, Acetic acid sodium salt trihydrate, Natrium acetate-3-wasser, natriumacetate trihydrate, Plasmafusin, Thomaegelin, Tutofusin, UNII-4550K0SC9B