Phosphoric Acid

Phosphoric acid (H3PO4) is an inorganic mineral acid mostly produced in the industry by the reaction of phosphate rocks with sulfuric acid (wet process).

In its pure form at room temperature, it is a colorless, odorless crystalline solid, but is usually found commercially as an 85% aqueous syrupy liquid.

It does not emit toxic or hazardous vapors but is corrosive to skin and metals in high concentrations.

•When applied directly to rusted metal surfaces (iron oxide), phosphoric acid converts the iron into a protective black iron(III) phosphate layer.

•It is the primary raw material in the production of phosphate salts (STPP) to soften water and increase cleaning power in detergents.

✓Over 90% of global phosphoric acid production is used in the manufacture of phosphorus fertilizers (DAP, MAP, TSP).

✓In the food industry (E338), it is used as a preservative to give a sharp, sour taste, especially in cola beverages, and to prevent bacterial/fungal growth.

✓Used in dentistry as an etching solution to roughen tooth enamel.