Phosphoric Acid 85%

Phosphoric Acid (85%) is a concentrated solution of phosphoric acid used in a variety of industrial and commercial applications. It is a clear, colorless to slightly yellow liquid with a high acid content.

Chemical Properties:

• Chemical Formula: H₃PO₄
• Molecular Weight: 97.99 g/mol
• Density: Approximately 1.685 g/cm³
• Boiling Point: Approximately 158°C (316°F) for the 85% solution; pure phosphoric acid boils at 213°C (415°F).
• Melting Point: Phosphoric acid solidifies at around 42°C (108°F) in its pure form.

Physical Characteristics:

• Appearance: Clear, colorless to slightly yellow liquid.
• Odor: Typically odorless.
• pH: Very low, around 1.5 to 2.5 for the 85% solution, indicating high acidity.

Common Uses:

1. Industrial Applications:
   • Fertilizer Production: Used in the production of phosphate fertilizers such as superphosphate and ammonium phosphate.
   • Metal Treatment: Employed in metal etching and cleaning processes to prepare surfaces for further treatments, such as in the phosphating process for steel and aluminum.
2. Food Industry:
   • Food Additive: Used as an acidulant in food products. It helps to acidify and preserve food items and is listed as E338 in the European food additive numbering system.
3. Water Treatment:
   • pH Adjustment: Applied in water treatment processes to adjust the pH levels of water, especially in municipal water systems.
4. Cleaning Agents:
   • Descaling: Used in cleaning agents and industrial cleaners to remove mineral deposits, rust, and scale from surfaces and equipment.
5. Pharmaceuticals:
   • pH Control: Utilized in pharmaceutical formulations to control pH and adjust acidity levels.

Safety and Handling Considerations:

1. Safety:
   • Corrosive Nature: Phosphoric acid is highly corrosive and can cause severe burns to skin and eyes. Inhalation of vapors can cause respiratory irritation.
   • Protective Equipment: Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including acid-resistant gloves, safety goggles, and protective clothing. A face shield and respiratory protection may be necessary in some situations.
2. Handling:
   • Storage: Store in a cool, dry place away from heat sources and incompatible materials. Keep containers tightly sealed to prevent contamination and evaporation.
   • Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation in areas where phosphoric acid is used or stored to avoid inhaling vapors.
3. Emergency Procedures:
   • Spills: In the event of a spill, contain the liquid using appropriate absorbent materials and neutralize with a suitable base, such as sodium carbonate. Follow proper disposal procedures for the cleaned-up material.
   • Exposure: In case of skin or eye contact, rinse immediately with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes and seek medical attention. If inhaled, move to fresh air and seek medical advice if symptoms persist.
4. Disposal:
   • Regulations: Dispose of phosphoric acid and its residues in accordance with local environmental regulations. Neutralization and treatment before disposal may be required to minimize environmental impact.