Phosphoric Acid

Chemical Description

Pure phosphoric acid is a white solid. At just over 42C, the solid melts into a liquid which is quite viscous and colorless. The most commonly commercially available forms of phosphoric acid are aqueous solutions of 75% to 85% concentration. These solutions are colorless, odorless, viscous / syrupy, and non-volatile.

Common Industrial Uses of Phosphoric Acid

Phosphoric acid is widely used as a rust remover. It converts iron(III) oxide to ferric phosphate (FePO4). This ferric phosphate can then be rubbed off (whereas the rust could not). These commercially available products are offered in a green liquid form, or more commonly, as a viscous gel which may be applied to vertical or even overhead surfaces.

Phosphoric acid is used as a food additive to add acidity, particularly in soft drinks. It provides a tangy, sour taste.

Phosphoric acid is commonly used as an etching agent by dentists and orthodontists. It is used to clean and etch areas of the teeth where dental fillings will be used. It is also used in teeth whitening agents to eliminate plaque and in over the counter nausea remedies.

Phosphoric acid is used as the electrolyte in many fuel cells and in copper electropolishing used in the manufacture of printed circuit boards.

It is used as a soldering flux, and as a dispersing agent in detergents and leather treatment.

Chemical Formula

  • H3PO4

CAS No.

  • 7664-38-2
  • 16271-20-8 (hemihydrate)

Minimum Order Quantity

20 ton (40,000 pound) minimum order.
Note: CCUSA is a wholesale industrial and commercial bulk chemical supplier.

Common Names / Also Known As

  • Trihydroxidooxidophosphorus
  • Orthophosphoric acid

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