Phosphoric acid: use and safety

Among the whole variety of acids, orthophosphoric acid takes its place of honor. Its application in some areas of industry has long proven itself.

Meet Phosphoric Acid

What does this chemical look like? This liquid is almost colorless or yellow. At room temperature, it exists in the form of diamond-shaped solid crystals. Usually this acid is called a solution of 85% concentration, which is a liquid like a syrup with a complete lack of smell. Phosphoric acid is highly soluble in water and many solvents. For example, in ethanol. If when heated, the temperature exceeds 213 degrees, this substance turns into pyrophosphoric acid.

There are 2 varieties of this substance:

• food acid;
• industrial.

Phosphoric Acid: Application

Today, this chemical is in demand in many areas of production. Where phosphoric acid is not found. Its application can be divided into 2 types: in the food and non-food industries.

Food Phosphoric Acid

This type is used for the manufacture of some products. For instance:

1. As a regulator of acidity in the production of carbonated drinks.
2. As an acidifier in cheeses and processed cheeses.
3. By production of some types of sausages.
4. In bakery as a component of baking powder.
5. In the manufacture of sugar.

This substance in industrial production has its own designation - antioxidant E338.

Non-food Phosphoric Acid

In many areas of production, it is impossible to do without a component called phosphoric acid. Its application is necessary:

1. In agriculture. Especially in an industry such as fur farming. A solution of this acid is included in the mink feed for the prevention of urolithiasis in animals.
2. In science, it is used for research in molecular biology.
3. In production, it is used as a flux for soldering in stainless steel, in copper.

How to deal with rust?

The answer is simple: phosphoric acid will help you. Application against rust of this substance protects against corrosion. The thing is that, unlike many others, it is safe for metals. Surface treatment with phosphoric acid contributes to the appearance of a protective film that prevents further damage. It can often be found in tools that are made to combat rust. Therefore, it is used in the hotel and restaurant business.

Harmful of phosphoric acid

However (along with the benefits) there are also disadvantages of using phosphoric acid.

1. It can increase the acidity of the body and thereby upset the balance.
2. It negatively affects calcium. Displaces it from teeth and bones. Earlier in dentistry, orthophosphoric acid was often used to remove enamel. Its use has been banned recently just for this reason.
3. Daily use of this substance in food can lead to vomiting, nausea, and lack of appetite.
4. Getting on the skin, phosphoric acid causes severe chemical burns.

Be that as it may, the use of this substance is permitted in the countries of Russia, the EU and the former CIS. With rational and skillful use, phosphoric acid is of great benefit.