Phosphoric acid, also known as orthophosphoric acid, is a mineral acid with the Chemical formula H₃PO₄. It is a clear, colorless liquid with a syrupy consistency and a strong, tangy taste. Phosphoric acid is produced by either the wet process or the thermal process. In the wet process, phosphate Rock is first reacted with Sulfuric acid to produce phosphoric acid. This process involves the extraction of phosphate from the rock, which is then reacted with sulfuric acid to form a mixture of phosphoric acid and calcium sulfate. The mixture is filtered, and the phosphoric acid is further purified and concentrated.

Phosphoric acid is a triprotic acid, meaning it can donate three protons (H⁺ ions) in solution. Its chemical formula, H₃PO₄, indicates the presence of three hydrogen atoms, one phosphorus atom, and four Oxygen atoms. The acid dissociates in water to release these protons, making it an acidic solution. Phosphoric acid is considered a moderately strong acid. Its acidity is often expressed using the pH scale, which ranges from 0 to 14. Phosphoric acid has a pH of around 2.2, making it highly acidic. However, the pH can vary depending on the concentration and temperature of the solution.

Phosphoric acid, or orthophosphoric acid, is a triprotic acid that is a dense liquid. This acid corrodes and irritates the human mucous membranes, skin and eyes. It is a colorless, odorless, clear liquid that releases flammable hydrogen gas when it comes in contact with metals. Pure phosphoric acid is white solid crystals with a melting point of 42.35 ° C. This acid is boiled at 158 ​​° C and its components are separated. When phosphoric acid is less concentrated, it is colorless, odorless, and a viscous liquid with a density of 1,685 g / ml (room temperature).

 However, this density when solid is equal to 2.03 g / ml. This acid is non-toxic and unflammable. The highest common concentration of phosphoric acid in water is 85% and the lowest for sale is 50%. This acid is best stored at a temperature below 30 ° C. At temperatures below 20 degrees, this acid becomes a very cold liquid and in many cases will not freeze. It's important to handle phosphoric acid with care as it is corrosive and can cause burns. When diluted, it is generally safe for consumption in Food and beverages within regulatory limits.

Phosphoric acid is any chemical that is made up of a combination of the three elements i.e. phosphorus, oxygen, and hydrogen (in various proportions). The most common type of phosphoric acid is orthophosphoric acid with the chemical compound H3PO4, commonly known as simple phosphoric acid. This acid is arguably one of the most widely used acids in the food, cosmetics, pharmaceutical and especially agricultural industries. Therefore, being familiar with its history, properties and applications in particular will be essential for technicians and enthusiasts.

Phosphoric acid is widely used in the food and beverage industry. It is a common ingredient in carbonated soft drinks, providing a tangy flavor and acting as a pH adjuster. It also functions as a preservative, preventing the growth of bacteria and molds. Additionally, phosphoric acid is used in the production of jams, jellies, processed meats, and cheeses. One of the major applications of phosphoric acid is in the manufacturing of fertilizers. It is an essential component in the production of phosphate-based fertilizers like DAP and MAP. These fertilizers provide plants with phosphorus, an essential nutrient for their growth and development.

Phosphoric acid finds use in various industrial processes. It is employed in Metal surface treatment, such as rust removal and acid cleaning of metal surfaces. The acid's corrosive properties make it effective in dissolving and removing mineral deposits and rust. Phosphoric acid is also utilized in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, detergents, water treatment chemicals, and flame retardants. While phosphoric acid is generally safe when properly handled and used in accordance with regulations, it is important to exercise caution. Concentrated phosphoric acid can cause severe burns and eye damage. Proper protective equipment, such as gloves and goggles, should be used when handling it. Additionally, it should be stored and transported in appropriate containers to prevent leaks and spills.

In the thermal process, phosphorus is burned in an excess of air to produce phosphorus pentoxide (P₂O₅). The phosphorus pentoxide is then dissolved in water to form phosphoric acid. Phosphoric acid is widely used in various industries and applications. It is commonly used as a food additive, particularly as an acidifying agent, flavor enhancer, and pH adjuster in soft Drinks and other beverages. It is also used in the production of fertilizers, detergents, metal surface treatment, pharmaceuticals, and other chemicals. Phosphoric acid is a key ingredient in the manufacturing of phosphate-based fertilizers, such as diammonium phosphate (DAP) and monoammonium phosphate (MAP).

Source