Fosfonozuur

Fosfonozuur, also known as phosphonic acid, is a chemical compound with the formula H3PO3. It is a diprotic acid, meaning it can donate two protons per molecule. In aqueous solution, it exists in equilibrium with its conjugate bases, H2PO3- and HPO32-. Fosfonozuur is a white crystalline solid that is soluble in water and polar organic solvents. It is a relatively strong acid, with pKa values of 1.5 and 6.5.

Fosfonozuur is synthesized industrially by the hydrolysis of phosphorus trichloride (PCl3) with water. The reaction proceeds as follows: PCl3 + 3H2O -> H3PO3 + 3HCl. Alternatively, it can be produced by the oxidation of phosphine (PH3) with oxygen in the presence of a catalyst.

The primary applications of fosfonozuur are in the production of phosphonates, which are used as scale and corrosion inhibitors in water treatment, as chelating agents, and as flame retardants. Fosfonozuur itself can also be used as a metal cleaning agent and as a precursor in the synthesis of various organic phosphorus compounds. It is important to note that fosfonozuur should be handled with care due to its corrosive nature.

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