August 26, 2010- Copper chlorophyllin, E 141 is the most commonly found sodium/copper derivative of chlorophyll. Chlorophyllin is a collective term used for green plant pigments extracted from plants and then put to a number of varying uses. Chlorophyllin are the water soluble salts that are derivatives of chlorophyll. Sodium copper chlorophyllin is used for a variety of purposes due to the chlorophyll content in it. Let us explore more about this complex compound, further in the article.
Chlorophyllin by structure is a water soluble salt. It is processed by the alkaline hydrolysis of chlorophyll using copper. The structure of chlorophyll consists of nitrogen, hydrocarbons, carbon & oxygen around the magnesium atom. Chlorophyll is capable of processing the sunlight into energy and carbon dioxide into oxygen. Therefore its is used as a source of energy in various forms. Sodium copper chlorophyllin is derived through the process of alkaline hydrolysis where the magnesium atom is replaced with sodium and copper.
It is a stabilized chlorophyll. It is available in green to black powder or liquid form and is insoluble in water. It is quite stable in normal conditions when there is not much fluctuation on light or heat. But noticeable precipitation might occur when used in acidified systems. Its color ranges from a blue-green to lime green shades.