Utilizing Phosphoric Acid
Phosphoric acid is a colorless, odorless, viscous, non-volatile liquid also known as H3PO4, orthophosphoric acid, or phosphoric (V) acid, that finds uses in many industries. Bell Chem carries several strengths of phosphoric acid to suit your industry’s needs, whether it is cleaning, pharmaceutical, food, and beverage, or agriculture.
Agriculture
Between 80% and 90% of all phosphoric acid produced eventually becomes fertilizer. Most commercial fertilizers are a combination of nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium (NPK). Phosphorous is also added in cattle, pig, and poultry feed for flavor.
Cleaner
Phosphoric acid degreases, de-grimes, and removes mineral deposits and hard water stains. Detergents often contain phosphoric acid to treat water and metals since phosphoric acid adheres to metals, flocculating them so they sink to the base of the container. Phosphoric acid is also an oxidizer, ideal for cleaning. Phosphoric acid reacts with rust to discolor ferric oxide into ferric phosphate, a simple-to-remove black compound.
Food and Beverage
As a food additive, phosphoric acid regulates the pH of processed meats and cheeses, cereal bars, and jams and jellies. Beverages find phosphoric acid an excellent acidulant to stave off the growth of bacteria and fungi. Many companies also add phosphoric acid to drinks as a flavor enhancer.
Fuel Cells
Phosphoric acid fuel cells (PAFCs) were the first generation of marketable fuel cells. Phosphoric acid was used as PAFCs’ electrolyte to catalyze the reaction.
Health and Beauty
Phosphoric acid combines quickly with metals to form phosphoric acid salts. These salts act as buffers to control the pH of skincare and cosmetic products. When many products are stored for an extended period, they may become overly acidic or basic. Phosphoric acid buffers prevent this, thereby lengthening the product’s shelf life.
Pharmaceutical
Phosphoric acid’s use as an etching solution in dentistry is renowned. When patients have their teeth cleaned, phosphoric acid is the chemical of choice and is often an ingredient in toothpaste, mouthwash, and teeth whiteners. Many anti-nausea medicines also contain phosphoric acid, which delays the stomach’s smooth muscle contractions, thereby relieving emesis.
Bell Chem is based in Longwood, FL (just north of Orlando) with hundreds of products stocked in their 50,000+ square-foot warehouse, including phosphoric acid. 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 personalize all your needs by either calling 407-339-BELL (2355) or by sending us an online message.