Phosphoric acid is a significant chemical used in many industries to produce a variety of products. Phosphoric acid (PA) is mildly acidic and is used in industries such as pharmaceuticals, agriculture, textile, food production, construction, cosmetics and beauty. Here are the top phosphoric acid uses:
1. Metallurgical.
Phosphoric acid is an industrial metal and is used to to treat metal surfaces by coating them with insoluble metal phosphate crystals affecting the hardness and electrical properties of the metal. Phosphoric acid is mixed with special additives and the phosphate coating is used on steel surfaces such as steel machinery, vehicles and aircrafts bodies for protection and rust proofing which ensures adhesiveness during painting.
It is also used to remove rust from metals. One only needs to soak the rusted metal object in a dilute solution of water and phosphoric acid and a reaction occurs which converts the iron oxide to ferric phosphate which can be easily removed from metals and a barrier is formed on the metal which prevents rusting and corrosion. PA is also used to remove oxides from metal machinery in food processing equipment.
2. Food and Beverage Industry.
Most products we consume make use of pure food grade phosphoric acid. It can be used as a food additive and it is mostly used as an acidity regulator in foods like jams, mayonnaise and processed meats.
In the beverage industry, phosphoric acid is used as an acidulant for juices, helps keep a check on the formation of bacteria and fungi in food processing, avoids water segregation in baked goods and can be used as food preservatives when converted to sodium and potassium phosphate. It may also be used as a disinfectant for fresh produce such as citrus fruits during processing.
3. Pharmaceutical and Dentistry Industry.
Dentists often carry out dental services and procedures using phosphoric acid derivatives such as dental cement which is made of zinc phosphate to clean and roughen teeth before they can insert dental appliances, phosphate salts to reduce teeth sensitivity and also whiten teeth, remove plaque and clean teeth. Orthopedic implants are also covered with calcium phosphate which helps them integrate with the osseous tissues. Other phosphoric acid uses are in the making of mouth wash and anti-nausea medicine.
4. Agriculture.
The wet-process phosphoric acid has been used for a long time in the production of fertilizers both for local and international export. The fertilizers such as superphosphates, ammonium phosphates and mixed NPK fertilizers are used either during fertilization, irrigation or foliar application. Animal and poultry feeds also contain phosphoric acid additives for flavoring and supplements.
5. Cosmetics And Beauty Industry.
Phosphoric acid uses extends to the cosmetic industry and it is used as a buffering and PH control agent in the cosmetics industry. It alters the PH of oral care and cosmetic products and it is therefore added as a stabilizing agent during formulation of personal care products and in some instances used as a preservative to lotions and creams. PA has a high UV absorbance rate and is therefore used in degrading fragrances and fatty acids in sunscreen lotions which prevents the skin from damage. Other products such as bathing products, makeup and nail products contain PA due to its buffering and PH control ability.
6. Manufacturing Cleaning Products.
Used in making soaps and detergents for cleaning tiles, tubs and toilet bowls. It is an acid-base cleaner for tiles and natural stones surfaces. It is very effective in removing mortar residue and hard water deposits.
7. Water treatment.
Phosphates（such as stpp, sodium hexametaphosphate tech grade）are used in water treatment facilities to ensure that the quality of water by reducing lead and copper levels in the distribution system. Inorganic contaminants such as iron and magnesium if allowed to come into contact with air may discolor the water hence the phosphoric acid is used to prevent this exposure by neutralizing contaminants and preventing bacteria growth in the treatment plant.
Other phosphoric acid uses include the production of activated carbon products and acts as an electrolyte in fuel cells and oxyhydrogen generators. It is important to take precaution when handling phosphoric acid by protecting your skin, eyes and face and also ensure that there is enough ventilation to minimize respiratory risks. If you need to purchase phosphoric acid, check more from our website(https://www.chemategroup.com/phosphoric-acid-for-sale/), Chemate – a professional supplier of chemicals, will be your ideal choice.