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Introduction
Azodicarbonamide (ADA) is a chemical compound used as a foaming or blowing agent in the production of foamed plastics and as a flour treatment agent in baking. As a blowing agent, it decomposes upon heating to produce gases (primarily nitrogen, carbon monoxide, and carbon dioxide) that create a cellular structure in the polymer. In the food industry, it is used as a flour treatment agent to improve dough strength and bread volume.
CAS Number
123-77-3
Synonyms
• Foaming agent AC
• Diazenedicarboxamide
• Azobisformamide
• INS 927a (as a food additive)
Topic Headings
1. Primary Applications (list form)
• Blowing agent for plastics — Used to produce foamed plastics, such as in the manufacture of rubber and thermoplastics.
• Food-contact foamed plastics — Used as a blowing agent in foamed plastics that come into contact with food.
• Flour treatment agent — Used in baking to improve dough strength and bread volume.
• Closure-sealing gaskets — Used in the production of sealing gaskets for food containers.
2. Mechanism of Action as a Blowing Agent (paragraph form)
Azodicarbonamide decomposes at temperatures typically between 180°C and 210°C. Upon heating, it releases gases (nitrogen, carbon monoxide, and carbon dioxide) that expand the polymer melt, forming a cellular or foam structure. This process is used to create lightweight, insulating, and flexible foamed plastics.
3. Chemical and physical properties (list form)
• Appearance — Yellow to orange-red crystalline powder.
• Odor — Odorless.
• Molecular weight — 116.08 g/mol.
• Decomposition temperature — Approximately 180-210°C.
• Solubility — Practically insoluble in water and most organic solvents.
• Density — 1.65 g/cm³.
4. Safety and Regulatory Status (paragraph form)
Azodicarbonamide is permitted for use as a food additive in some countries, including the US, where it is listed as a GRAS substance for use as a flour treatment agent. In the EU, it is no longer permitted as a food additive. As a blowing agent for food-contact plastics, its use is regulated, and migration limits are established. The primary safety concern with ADA is the potential formation of semicarbazide and urethane during processing, which are considered potential carcinogens. Due to these concerns, its use has been restricted or banned in some jurisdictions.
