Phosphoric Acid Guide
The term “phosphoric acid” may mean any number of chemicals within this acid category. However, all phosphoric acids share several characteristics: they are derived from naturally occurring phosphate minerals, are water-soluble, and appear as a white solid or a clear, viscous liquid. Otherwise, the variety of phosphoric acids and phosphates are as different as the methods in which they are used in industry. The following information will break down the different members of the phosphoric acid family and give a few functions of each. Contact Tampa chemical supplier, Bell Chem, to find which member of the phosphoric acid family is perfect for your industry.
Monophosphoric (orthophosphoric) acid is the simplest inorganic phosphoric acid with the chemical formula of H3PO4. Monophosphoric acid is often used as a detergent and in potable water systems where it forms a protective barrier inside pipes.
Polyphosphoric acid is an inorganic chain of two or more monophosphoric acids. This larger molecule is utilized in the organic synthesis of acylations and cyclizations (commonly in adenosine triphosphate, or ATP, as well as adenosine diphosphate, or ADP). Polyphosphoric acid is often found in detergents, acts as a corrosion inhibitor in potable water systems, as a compound to aid in the processing of fish and meat, in carbonated colas, and in baking powder. Its most recognized function, though, is its use in fertilizers.
Pyrophosphoric acid (H4P2O7) is used in detergents to control corrosion in potable water systems, and as a compound to form adenosine diphosphate, which is essential for energy use in biological organisms.
Metaphosphoric acids are phosphate rings or strings and often appear as salts or esters. With a loss of hydrogen, the metaphosphate that forms is a food additive and sequestrant.
Organic phosphates, phosphates compounded with carbon, are frequently used in biogeochemistry (ecology), as well as in biochemistry.
With its multiple uses in dentistry, orthodontics, pharmaceuticals, the medical industry, computer hardware production, and as an industrial cleaner and sanitizer, phosphoric acid belongs in every business’s inventory. Contact Tampa chemical supplier, Bell Chem, at (407) 339-2355 (BELL) to speak to a knowledgeable representative concerning phosphoric acid or any of their other chemicals. You can also browse the rest of the website for a list of chemicals in Bell Chem’s inventory and information on their uses.