Product Overview
Phosphoric acid 85% Technical Grade is a highly concentrated mineral acid represented by the chemical formula H3O4P with a molecular weight of 97.995 g/mol. Identified globally under CAS number 7664-38-2, this inorganic acid acts as a crucial reagent and chemical intermediate across numerous heavy industries — primarily utilized in surface prep and synthesis. In its technical form, it presents as a clear, colorless, and odorless liquid that is denser than water, featuring a density of 1.892 at 77 °F (USCG, 1999). Alliance Chemical distributes this high-purity industrial grade through our curated collection of acids to meet the rigorous demands of manufacturing plants, surface finishing facilities, and agricultural compounding operations nationwide.
This technical grade formulation contains 85% active phosphoric acid, providing a consistent, low-impurity profile tailored specifically for non-food and non-medical industrial applications. Unlike dilute variations, the 85% concentration offers maximum chemical activity and lower water content, allowing precise formulation control and reducing shipping volumes. As a primary source of phosphorus, it serves as an essential building block in the synthesis of industrial compounds and surface prep solutions. Our commitment to chemical distribution excellence ensures that every batch is supported by full documentation to maintain compliance and process integrity.
Why This Grade
Selecting the 85% Technical Grade over other concentrations or grades is vital for process predictability and economic efficiency. Technical grade chemical distribution requires a careful balance; using an analytical reagent grade where it is not required adds unnecessary expense, while using a lower-purity or highly diluted acid can introduce critical process failures. For example, in surface treatment and rust conversion, trace metallic impurities found in substandard grades can interfere with the phosphate coating process, leading to poor paint adhesion or premature metal corrosion. The 85% concentration level provides the exact chemical equilibrium required to establish stable acid baths without introducing excess water that would slow down reaction times or dilute active baths too rapidly.
Furthermore, choosing an incorrect grade or concentration introduces significant failure modes into industrial processes. Substituting other concentrations instead of our standard Phosphoric Acid 85% - Technical Grade can alter the pH dynamics of complex chemical mixtures or cause precipitation of critical components. In industrial applications like catalyst manufacturing or pH adjustment in highly buffered systems, precise control over the hydronium ion concentration is necessary. Utilizing our standardized 85% Technical Grade ensures consistent viscosity, predictable boiling and melting points, and reliable reaction kinetics, preventing costly batch rejections and unplanned system downtime.
Chemical Profile
- CAS Number
- 7664-38-2
- Chemical Formula
- H3O4P
- Molecular Weight
- 97.995 g/mol
- Boiling Point
- greater than 266 °F at 760 mmHg (USCG, 1999)
- Melting Point
- 108 °F (NIOSH, 2024)
- Specific Gravity
- 1.892 at 77 °F (USCG, 1999) - Denser than water; will sink
- Appearance
- Phosphoric acid appears as a clear colorless liquid or transparent crystalline solid. The pure solid melts at 42.35 °C and has a density of 1.834 g / cm3. Liquid is usually an 85% aqueous solution. Shipped as both a solid and liquid. Corrosive to metals and tissue. Used in making fertilizers and detergents and in food processing.
- Solubility
- Miscible (NIOSH, 2024)
- UN Number
- UN1805
- Hazard Class
- Class 8
- Packing Group
- III
- Proper Shipping Name
- PHOSPHORIC ACID, SOLUTION
- GHS Signal Word
- Danger
Values sourced from Alliance Chemical's canonical chemistry registry. Certificate of Analysis (COA) per lot.
Industrial Applications
- Metal phosphatizing and surface preparation to remove rust and create a corrosion-resistant protective coating before painting or powder coating in metal finishing processes.
- Manufacturing of high-efficiency agricultural fertilizers where technical grade phosphorus serves as a direct nutrient source for industrial blends.
- Formulation of specialized industrial detergents and cleaning compounds that require robust pH adjustment and chelating capabilities in hard water.
- Chemical synthesis of phosphate salts and esters used widely in plasticizers, flame retardants, and industrial hydraulic fluids.
- Precise pH control and neutralization in industrial wastewater treatment facilities to meet municipal discharge and environmental compliance regulations.
Hazmat & Shipping
Phosphoric Acid 85% - Technical Grade is regulated for transport under Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations. It is classified as UN1805, Hazard Class 8 (Corrosive), Packing Group III, with the Proper Shipping Name PHOSPHORIC ACID, SOLUTION. The GHS Signal Word is Danger. Due to its corrosive nature to metals and tissue, this material must be handled with extreme care by trained personnel. Standard shipping protocols require certified corrosive hazard labels and specialized packaging to prevent accidental releases during transit. Every shipment complies fully with federal and international hazmat transport standards.
Safe handling of this chemical requires strict adherence to Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) guidelines based on its hazard profile. The compound carries the hazard statement H314, indicating it causes severe skin burns and eye damage. Operators must wear appropriate protective equipment as designated by precautionary statements P260, P264, P280, P301+P330+P331, P302+P361+P354, P304+P340, P305+P354+P338, P316, P321, P363, P405, and P501. Required gear includes chemical-resistant gloves, a full face shield, protective splash aprons, and vapor respirators when working in poorly ventilated spaces. We provide a comprehensive Safety Data Sheet (SDS) provided with every order to ensure your facility maintains complete safety and regulatory compliance.
Handling & Storage
Proper storage of Phosphoric Acid 85% requires maintaining temperatures above its melting point of 108 °F (NIOSH, 2024) to prevent crystallization, while avoiding extreme heat to prevent vapor pressure increases. Keep containers tightly closed in a cool, well-ventilated area. This corrosive acid is highly incompatible with strong bases, active metals (such as aluminum, zinc, and galvanized steel), and strong oxidizing agents, which can generate flammable hydrogen gas. Ensure storage vessels are constructed of compatible materials like high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polypropylene, or specially lined steel to prevent structural degradation and leaks.
Order & Documentation
Our team is prepared to fulfill bulk, pallet, and case orders to suit your facility's operational demands. To ensure your quality control processes are fully supported, a Certificate of Analysis (COA) is available upon request for every batch shipped. To secure your supply or obtain detailed documentation, you can easily Request a Quote or Download the SDS directly from our online chemical catalog.
Why Buy from Alliance Chemical
Since 1997, Alliance Chemical has supplied premium industrial chemicals from Taylor, Texas under CAGE Code 1LT50, with a COA and SDS included on every order. For industrial use only.