Phosphoric acid properties, uses, upstream and downstream raw materials and storage methods analysis

Phosphoric acid basic properties

Phosphoric acid is a colorless, odorless, transparent liquid or colorless crystalline solid with strong acidity. It has a relative molecular mass of 98.00, a melting point of 42.35°C, a boiling point of 213°C, a high solubility in water, and can be miscible with polar solvents such as ethanol. Phosphoric acid is usually present in the industry in the form of an 85% aqueous solution, which is highly corrosive and can react with many metals to form phosphates. Phosphoric acid is also a tribasic acid, its molecular structure contains three hydrogen ions, which can be gradually ionized, which makes it have a variety of uses and characteristics in chemical reactions.

Phosphoric acid main purpose

agricultural field

Phosphoric acid is mainly used as a raw material for fertilizers in agriculture. Phosphate fertilizers, such as potassium dihydrogen phosphate (KH₂ PO) and monoammonium phosphate (NH₂ H₂ PO), can provide plants with essential phosphorus elements, promote plant growth and development and root system development, and improve crop yield and quality.

food industry

In the food industry, phosphoric acid is used as an acidulant and preservative. It can adjust the pH of food and improve the taste and quality of food. For example, in beverage manufacturing, phosphoric acid is commonly used in carbonated beverages to enhance flavor and stability. Phosphoric acid is also used in the manufacturing process of products such as cheese, jam, and canned food.

Chemical and pharmaceutical fields

Phosphoric acid is widely used in the chemical industry to produce phosphate compounds, such as sodium phosphate and ammonium phosphate, which are widely used in the fields of detergents, water treatment agents and flame retardants. In the pharmaceutical industry, phosphoric acid is used as an acidic catalyst and buffer in drug synthesis to help adjust the pH of the drug and ensure the stability and effectiveness of the drug.

electronics and semiconductor industry

Phosphoric acid is used as an etchant in the electronics and semiconductor industries, particularly in the manufacture of integrated circuits and electronic components. Phosphoric acid can accurately etch silicon and other materials to form the required tiny structures and patterns, thereby improving the performance and integration of electronic products.

Phosphoric acid upstream and downstream raw materials

Upstream raw materials

The production of phosphoric acid mainly depends on phosphate rock and sulfuric acid. Phosphate rock (mainly apatite) is a mineral containing phosphorus in nature. Phosphate is obtained through ore mining and processing, and then reacts with sulfuric acid to produce phosphoric acid. The specific process is as follows: phosphate rock and sulfuric acid are wet treated at high temperature to generate phosphoric acid and by-product gypsum.

Downstream Products

As an intermediate product, phosphoric acid is widely used in various industrial products downstream. The main downstream products include phosphate fertilizers, food additives, chemical products and pharmaceutical products. The wide application of phosphoric acid determines its important position in the industrial chain and has an important impact on the development of upstream and downstream industries.

Phosphoric acid storage method

Storage Environment Requirements

Phosphoric acid is highly corrosive, so special attention should be paid to prevent leakage and environmental pollution during storage. Phosphoric acid should be stored in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place, avoid direct sunlight and high temperature environment. Storage areas should be kept away from combustibles and reducing substances to prevent hazards caused by chemical reactions.

Container Selection

Phosphoric acid should be stored in acid-resistant, corrosion-resistant containers, such as polyethylene, polypropylene, or plastic-lined steel containers. The container should be well sealed to prevent phosphoric acid from leaking and absorbing moisture and impurities in the air. The container shall be clearly marked with the chemical name, concentration, hazard identification and other information for safe management and use.

Safety measures

When storing and handling phosphoric acid, operators should wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as acid-resistant gloves, protective glasses and protective clothing, to prevent phosphoric acid from contacting skin and eyes, burns and other health hazards. Storage areas should be equipped with emergency flushing equipment, such as emergency sprinklers and eyewash, to allow for rapid disposal in the event of accidental contact. Check storage containers and facilities regularly to ensure that they are intact and avoid safety accidents caused by container breakage or leakage.

Environmental and regulatory requirements

The production, storage and use of phosphoric acid will produce certain wastes and pollutants, so environmental regulations and standards must be strictly observed. Enterprises should take effective waste water treatment and waste gas treatment measures to reduce environmental pollution. Waste phosphoric acid and its containers shall be properly disposed in accordance with hazardous waste management regulations to prevent secondary pollution to soil and water sources.

As an important chemical raw material, phosphoric acid has a wide range of uses and important economic value. Scientific and reasonable management of the production, storage and use of phosphoric acid can not only improve the economic benefits of enterprises, but also effectively reduce environmental risks and promote sustainable development.