Can Ammonium Bicarbonate 'salt out' ethanol alcohol?

In summary, the conversation discussed the use of Ammonium Bicarbonate in a fermentation process and whether it can "salt out" ethanol like other compounds such as Sodium Carbonate and Ammonium Sulfate. The question also arose about whether Ammonium Bicarbonate decomposes in alcohol or if it can separate alcohol from water due to its ionic properties.
  • #1
ejnovek
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I'm testing Ammonium Bicarbonate in a fermentation process. Is it possible for Ammonium Bicarbonate to 'salt out' Ethanol? Compounds such as Sodium Carbonate and Ammonium Sulfate are able to salt out ethanol.
 
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  • #2
Sounds like a good measurement project.
 
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Does the Ammonium Bicarbonate decompose in the alcohol or is it able go separate the alcohol from the water? As an ionic compound, is it able to 'salt out' alcohol like other ionic compounds?
 
  • #4
ejnovek said:
Does the Ammonium Bicarbonate decompose in the alcohol or is it able go separate the alcohol from the water? As an ionic compound, is it able to 'salt out' alcohol like other ionic compounds?

Ammonium Bicarbonate = [NH4+][HCO3-]. This will decompose in H2O, I believe... [NH4+] + [HCO3-] --> NH3 (g) + CO2 (g) + H2O (l) [Gas forming reactions tend to go becasue of the large positive entropy change when producing a gas...]
 
  • #5


It is possible for Ammonium Bicarbonate to 'salt out' Ethanol in a fermentation process. This process, known as salting out, involves adding a salt to a solution to decrease the solubility of a target compound, in this case ethanol. Compounds such as Sodium Carbonate and Ammonium Sulfate are known to effectively salt out ethanol, and Ammonium Bicarbonate may have a similar effect. However, the effectiveness of Ammonium Bicarbonate in salting out ethanol may depend on various factors such as concentration, temperature, and pH of the solution. Further experimentation and analysis would be needed to determine the exact effects of Ammonium Bicarbonate on ethanol in a fermentation process.
 

1. What is ammonium bicarbonate and how does it interact with ethanol alcohol?

Ammonium bicarbonate is a chemical compound made up of ammonium, carbon, and hydrogen atoms. It is commonly used as a food additive and in the production of certain chemicals. When mixed with ethanol alcohol, it can cause the alcohol to separate from the water in a process known as "salting out."

2. How does ammonium bicarbonate "salt out" ethanol alcohol?

Ammonium bicarbonate is highly soluble in water, but not in ethanol alcohol. When added to a solution containing both water and ethanol, the ammonium bicarbonate will preferentially bond with the water molecules. This causes the ethanol to become less soluble and eventually separate from the water, forming a distinct layer.

3. Can ammonium bicarbonate be used to separate ethanol alcohol from other substances?

Yes, ammonium bicarbonate can be used to separate ethanol alcohol from other substances, as long as those substances are more soluble in water than in ethanol. This technique is commonly used in the production of ethanol-based fuels and in the purification of other chemicals.

4. Are there any potential risks or hazards associated with using ammonium bicarbonate to "salt out" ethanol alcohol?

Ammonium bicarbonate is generally considered safe for use in food and chemical production. However, it is a corrosive substance and can cause irritation to the skin and eyes. It is important to handle it with care and follow proper safety precautions, such as wearing gloves and goggles, when using it in a laboratory setting.

5. What is the advantage of using ammonium bicarbonate to separate ethanol alcohol compared to other methods?

One advantage of using ammonium bicarbonate to separate ethanol alcohol is that it is a simple and relatively inexpensive method. It does not require specialized equipment and can be easily scaled up for industrial use. Additionally, unlike some other techniques, it does not require the use of toxic or hazardous chemicals.

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