Phosphoric acid is a colorless orthorhombic crystalline compound in its pure form and is highly deliquescent. It is soluble in water and ethanol. While its acidity is weaker than strong acids such as sulfuric acid, hydrochloric acid, and nitric acid, it is stronger than weak acids like acetic acid and boric acid. It can irritate the skin, causing inflammation and damaging tissue. When dissolved in water, phosphoric acid releases heat. Upon high-temperature heating, it dehydrates to form pyrophosphoric acid and metaphosphoric acid. Prolonged exposure to low temperatures results in crystallization. It is corrosive and hygroscopic.
It is used for determining chromium, nickel, and vanadium content in steel, metal rust prevention, and as a rubber coagulant. It is also applied in measuring non-protein nitrogen, total cholesterol in serum, and whole blood glucose levels. Crystalline phosphoric acid is primarily used in manufacturing processes such as microelectronics, high-energy batteries, and laser glass, serving as a high-purity catalyst and medical material.
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