Vanadium Citrate stands out as a coordination compound formed by the reaction of vanadium and citric acid. Its chemical formula, C6H6O7V, points to a specific arrangement of vanadium and citrate ligands. The material comes from a reaction between a vanadium salt—most often vanadium pentoxide—and citric acid. Chemists recognize this compound under different forms, each exhibiting properties connected to the ratios and conditions used during synthesis. Manufacturers obtain Vanadium Citrate as a result of precise control over reactants, temperature, and pH.
On observation, Vanadium Citrate appears as a fine powder, but processing can yield it as solid flakes, crystals, pearls, or an aqueous solution. Its color most frequently ranges from yellow to pale green. The compound’s density usually falls between 1.8 and 2.3 g/cm³, with specific values determined by crystal structure and water content. Structural analysis demonstrates the presence of a vanadium ion chelated by citric acid, producing a stable structure both in solid and dissolved states. Thanks to multiple functional groups in citric acid, vanadium stays securely enclosed, preventing rapid dissociation and boosting its shelf life in storage as a solid or liquid formulation.
In chemical terms, Vanadium Citrate behaves as a mild oxidizer and participates in various redox reactions. Its solubility in water depends on the form and preparation technique, with the powder and crystal producing clear solutions. This compound resists hydrolysis under neutral or slightly acidic conditions, but decomposes with strong acids or bases. Commercial grades describe purity through vanadium content, which typically ranges from 17% to 25% by mass. The usual specification sheet lists melting point in the neighborhood of 180°C, though water of hydration will drive this value lower for some hydrates.
Producers offer Vanadium Citrate in more than one form to suit multiple industries. The powder form allows for easy dispersion in aqueous and some non-aqueous systems, which makes it practical for laboratory-scale synthesis and pilot production. Flakes and crystals allow for slower dissolution and more gradual vanadium release, popular with researchers who want to control concentrations and reactions precisely. Pearls, a rare form, provide low-dust handling when bulk feeding becomes necessary. For solution-based needs, stable aqueous solutions (vanadium citrate dissolved at concentrations between 10% and 30% by mass) provide accuracy in dosing while minimizing dust exposure in manufacturing. The choice among these forms ties back to workflow preferences and handling safety in the processing environment.
The international trade of Vanadium Citrate often uses the HS Code 2841.90, which refers to salts of oxometallic or peroxometallic acids. This facilitates customs clearance and regulatory declarations across different regions. Sourcing quality raw materials matters—a reliable supply of vanadium pentoxide, citric acid, pure water, and process control chemicals upholds consistent product quality across batches. Reliable documentation of molecular structure and formula allows for smooth navigation of regulatory environments and accurate placement in chemical catalogs and export-import filings.
Industries value Vanadium Citrate due to its role in catalysis, battery research, specialty pigment production, and fertilizer development. For example, vanadium-based compounds have drawn attention as electrolyte additives in next-generation redox flow batteries. In these systems, reliable solubility and stability increase process yield and energy density. Vanadium’s biological effects (measured in trace amounts) also support agricultural biochemistry, though ongoing research tracks environmental and health impacts. Material handling does not come easy; excessive dust or liquid splashes may lead to localized irritation of the skin, eyes, or mucosa. Gloves, protective eyewear, and chemical aprons—the standard personal protective equipment—help reduce direct contact.
Pure Vanadium Citrate sits among materials classified as hazardous when stored in bulk or used in large quantities. It may cause harm through inhalation or ingestion, with chronic exposure raising concerns about toxicity. Hazard communication (including clear labeling, Safety Data Sheets, and inventory tracking) takes on real importance for workplaces handling tonnage or multiple forms at once. Storage in well-ventilated, dry rooms at controlled temperatures, away from acids, bases, or oxidizing compounds, decreases the risk of secondary reactions or unintentional release. Workers operating in facilities that manufacture or use Vanadium Citrate see frequent health monitoring and rigorous access control as worthwhile safeguards.
Industry-wide, efforts to lower occupational health hazards from Vanadium Citrate start with improved ventilation, dust suppression systems, and containment during mixing and transfer. Closed handling—the use of sealed reaction vessels or dispensing under fume hoods or local exhaust—cuts down on direct human contact. In my own experience at a specialty chemicals plant, pairing chemical-resistant gloves and goggles, routine air quality sampling, and incident drills with practical on-the-job training gave our team the skills and confidence to handle substances like Vanadium Citrate without fear or injury. Waste minimization also plays a big part. Efforts to recycle unused compound, neutralize waste streams, and transition to lower toxicity alternatives gain growing traction in government regulation and corporate sustainability programs, helping create a safer work environment while protecting environmental resources.
