Industry Uses of Phosphoric Acid

Phosphoric acid is available under a variety of names, such as phosphoric (V) acid, orthophosphoric acid, and H3PO4. Regardless of its nomenclature, most of its use is in one field: fertilizer. However, this colorless, odorless, viscous crystalline solid or liquid has other uses as well, and Bell Chem stocks phosphoric acid and many other tech grade products for all of their uses. 

  • Agriculture: Phosphoric acid’s starring role is as a phosphate salt in three varieties of fertilizer: mono ammonium dihydrogen phosphate (MAP), diammonium hydrogen phosphate (DAP), and triple superphosphate (TSP). Because phosphoric acid is an acid, it is also added to animal feed to deter microbial growth while adding flavor to the feed.

  • Food and beverage: Much as in animal feed, phosphoric acid is added to foods and beverages to regulate pH, stanch biological growth, and as a flavoring. Phosphoric acid is an ingredient in carbonated beverages, jams, processed meats and cheeses, and cereal bars. 

  • Cosmetics and personal care: The manufacture of fragrances, hair and nail care products, makeup, and cleansers is much smoother with phosphoric acid controlling pH levels. 

  • Pharmaceutical: Dentistry relies on phosphoric acid as an intermediary in etching solutions to cleanse teeth. It is also utilized as a teeth whitener and is often added to mouthwash for brightening teeth. Mixed with glucose and fructose, phosphoric acid coats the stomach lining to prevent nausea. 

  • Machinery: Phosphoric acid reacts readily with rust-coated surfaces, sequestering iron from ferric oxide to create ferric phosphate, a black substance easily removed from metal surfaces. Mineral deposits and stains on cement are also removed with phosphoric acid in much the same manner.

  • Energy generation: Fuel cells and oxyhydrogen generators rely on phosphoric acid as an electrolyte, stimulating ions to generate energy at a more rapid pace. 

Discover how non-volatile phosphoric acid can be used in your business by contacting Bell Chem. Bell Chem is based in Longwood, FL (just north of Orlando) with hundreds of products, including tech grade products, stocked in their 50,000+ square-foot warehouse. You can expect the highest quality products, expedited shipping options for maximum efficiency, and unrivaled personalized customer service. Let our knowledgeable and friendly customer service representatives and accounting staff handle all your needs by calling 407-339-BELL (2355) or send us an online message.

Previous
Previous

Xanthan Gum in the Food Industry

Next
Next

EDTA