Phosphoric acid
Phosphoric acid (CAS: 7664-38-2), with the chemical formula H3PO4 and a molecular weight of 98.00 g/mol, is a strong inorganic acid. It is a colourless to slightly coloured, odourless liquid, often supplied as an aqueous solution. Phosphoric acid is widely used in the food and beverage industry as an acidulant and flavouring agent, in metal treatment for phosphating, and as a crucial component in fertiliser production. Its versatility makes it a staple in numerous chemical processes.
- IUPAC
- Orthophosphoric acid
- Synonyms
- Orthophosphoric acid

Food and Beverage Industry
Phosphoric acid serves as an acidulant and flavouring agent in soft drinks and other food products. It contributes to the characteristic tangy taste and acts as a preservative.
Metal Treatment
It is employed in metal cleaning and phosphating processes to create a protective conversion coating on metal surfaces, enhancing corrosion resistance and paint adhesion.
Fertiliser Production
Phosphoric acid is a key intermediate in the manufacturing of phosphate fertilisers, which are essential for plant growth and agricultural productivity.
Chemical Synthesis
This acid acts as a catalyst and reagent in various organic and inorganic chemical syntheses, facilitating a range of industrial reactions.
Laboratory Reagent
As an ACS reagent grade acid, it is used in analytical chemistry and general laboratory applications requiring a high-purity acid.
| Molecular weight | 98.00 |
|---|---|
| Linear formula | H3PO4 |
| Assay | ≥85.0% |
| Grade | ACS reagent |
| Colour | APHA: ≤10 |
| Boiling point | 158 °C(lit.) |
| Density | 1.685 g/mL at 25 °C(lit.) |
| Melting point | ~40 °C(lit.) |
| Solubility | H2O: soluble |
| Concentration | ≥85 wt. % in H2O |
| Vapour pressure | 2.2 mmHg (20 °C)5 mmHg (25 °C) |
| Vapour density | 3.4 (vs air) |
| Impurities tested | reducing substances, passes test≤0.001% volatile acids (as CH3COOH) |
| Suitability | corresponds to standard for RP gradient testcorresponds to standard for filter test |

Hazard statements
- H290May be corrosive to metals
- H314Causes severe skin burns and eye damage
Precautionary statements
- P280Wear protective gloves, clothing and eye/face protection
- P305IF IN EYES
- P310Immediately call a POISON CENTER or doctor
| Protective equipment | Faceshields, full-face respirator (US), Gloves, Goggles, multi-purpose combination respirator cartridge (US), type ABEK (EN14387) respirator filter |
|---|---|
| Transport (UN / ADR) | UN 1805 8 / PGIII |
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 1 |
| Hazard codes (EU) | C |
| Risk statements (R) | 34 |
| Safety statements (S) | 26-45 |
| Cation traces | As: ≤1 ppmCa: ≤0.002%Fe: ≤0.003%K: ≤0.005%Mg: ≤0.02%Mn: ≤0.5 ppmNa: ≤0.025%Sb: ≤0.002%heavy metals (as Pb): ≤0.001% |
| Anion traces | chloride (Cl-): ≤3 ppmnitrate (NO3-): ≤5 ppmsulfate (SO42-): ≤0.003% |
Hazard information is provided for guidance. Always consult the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS), available on request, before handling.
| Gene Information | human ... SRC(6714) |
|---|---|
| Shelf Life | (limited shelf life, expiry date on the label) |
| Uv Absorption | λ: 210 nm Amax: 0.05λ: 220 nm Amax: 0.04λ: 230 nm Amax: 0.03λ: 240 nm Amax: 0.02λ: 500 nm Amax: 0.02 |
Documentation
Every batch ships with a Certificate of Analysis covering assay, identity and purity; the grade is confirmed against your enquiry. Safety Data Sheets and technical data sheets are available on request.
Supply & logistics
Samples for technical evaluation; bulk MOQ by grade and packaging. In-stock material ships in 7–10 working days, worldwide, with full export documentation.
What is Phosphoric acid used for?
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Phosphoric acid is primarily used in the food and beverage industry as an acidulant, in metal treatment for phosphating, in the production of fertilisers, and as a general laboratory reagent and catalyst in chemical synthesis.
What are the CAS number and formula for Phosphoric acid?
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The CAS number for Phosphoric acid is 7664-38-2, and its chemical formula is H3PO4.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?
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Tech Serve Solutions supplies Phosphoric acid in ACS reagent grade, with an assay of ≥85.0%.
How should Phosphoric acid be handled safely?
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Phosphoric acid is a corrosive substance (H314) causing severe skin burns and eye damage. Handle with appropriate personal protective equipment, including gloves, goggles, and face shields, in a well-ventilated area. Refer to the Safety Data Sheet for detailed handling instructions.
Is Phosphoric acid a controlled substance?
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Based on the provided data, Phosphoric acid is not listed as a controlled substance.
How is Phosphoric acid packed, shipped, and exported?
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Phosphoric acid is shipped according to UN 1805 regulations (Class 8, PGIII). Specific packaging details for export are available upon request.
How can I request a sample or quote for Phosphoric acid?
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To request a sample or quote, please contact our sales team with your specific requirements.
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