Fosfersyre

Fosfersyre, known in English as phosphoric acid, is a mineral inorganic acid with the chemical formula H3PO4. It is a triprotic acid, meaning it can donate up to three protons, and it forms various phosphate species depending on the pH. In its concentrated form it is a colorless, odorless, viscous liquid that is highly corrosive to skin and eyes and reacts with bases and many metals.

Industrial production of fosfersyre typically involves treating phosphate rock with concentrated sulfuric acid, which converts the phosphates into phosphoric acid and calcium sulfate as a byproduct. The process yields large quantities of phosphoric acid that serve as a building block for phosphate fertilizers, including mono- and diammonium phosphates, as well as various phosphate salts used in industry. Natural phosphates are found in mineral deposits, and the acid is also prepared by refining phosphate-containing materials.

In addition to agriculture, fosfersyre has widespread non-industrial and consumer applications. It is used as an acidity regulator and flavoring agent in the food and beverage industry (coded as E338 in many regions). It is employed for rust and scale removal, metal surface etching, and in some cleaning and processing formulations. In biochemistry and medicine, phosphate ions derived from phosphoric acid are essential for energy transfer and signaling, though phosphoric acid itself is primarily used in non-biological contexts.

Safety and handling: fosfersyre is corrosive and can cause severe chemical burns. It should be stored in corrosion-resistant containers, kept away from bases and incompatible materials, and handled with appropriate protective equipment.