Phosphoric Acid Home and Living

Phosphoric acid, a common inorganic acid, is a clear, colorless, viscous solution with no odor. Unlike volatile substances, it doesn’t quickly decompose and shows minimal signs of oxidation. While its acidity is milder than hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid, and nitric acid, it is more potent than acetic acid, boric acid, and similar compounds. Phosphoric acid readily dissolves in air and is miscible with water and ethanol.
USES:
Agriculture: Phosphoric acid is a vital raw material for producing essential phosphate fertilizers, including superphosphate and potassium dihydrogen phosphate. Additionally, it plays a crucial role in creating feed nutrients, such as calcium dihydrogen phosphate. Industry: Phosphoric acid is important as a chemical raw material in various industrial applications. Its primary functions are as follows: Surface Treatment: It forms an insoluble phosphate film on metal surfaces, effectively safeguarding them against corrosion.
Chemical Polishing: When combined with nitric acid, it serves as a chemical polish, enhancing the finishing quality of metal surfaces. Production of Cleaning Products: Phosphoric acid is utilized as a raw material in washing supplies and as a pesticide precursor, specifically for phosphate esters. Flame Retardant Materials: It is crucial in producing flame retardant materials containing phosphorus. Food: Phosphoric acid finds application as a food additive, primarily serving as a sour agent and providing yeast nutrition. Notably, it is present in cola beverages. Additionally, phosphate, another essential food additive, can be a nutrient enhancer. Medicine: Phosphoric acid is utilized to produce phosphorus-containing medications, including sodium glycerophosphate, a notable example.