Phosphates
| Formula: | General formula varies (PO₄³⁻ salts) – e.g., Na₃PO₄, Ca₃(PO₄)₂, (NH₄)₃PO₄ |
| CAS Number: | Varies (e.g., Sodium Phosphate – 7601-54-9; Calcium Phosphate – 7758-87-4) |
| EC Number (EINECS): | Varies by compound (e.g., 231-509-8 for Sodium Phosphate) |
| HS Code: | 28352990 (generic for phosphates, may differ by specific salt) |
| UN Number: | Not typically classified as hazardous for transport (varies) |
| IUPAC Name: | Derived from Orthophosphoric Acid Salts |
| Also Known As: | Phosphate Salts; Orthophosphates; Inorganic Phosphates |
| Molecular Weight, g/mol: | Depends on salt (e.g., Na₃PO₄ = 163.94; Ca₃(PO₄)₂ = 310.18) |
Typical Specifications
| Appearance: | White crystalline powder or granules |
| Odor: | Odorless |
| Melting Point, °C: | Decomposes above 300 |
| Density, g/cm³ (at 20°C): | ~2.3–2.9 |
| Solubility: | Soluble in water (depending on type) |
| pH (1% solution): | 8–12 (alkaline salts); neutral to slightly basic |
| Purity, %: | ≥98 (depending on industrial/food grade) |
| Grades Available: | Technical, Food, Pharma, Fertilizer Grade |
| Packaging: | 25kg bags, 50kg bags, jumbo bags, bulk supply |
Applications / Uses
Primary Applications
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Used in fertilizers to provide phosphorus for plant growth
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Food additive (pH control, emulsifier, stabilizer, leavening agent)
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Water treatment (scale inhibition, corrosion control)
Secondary Applications
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Ingredient in detergents and cleaning agents
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Used in ceramics and glass manufacturing
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Fire retardant applications
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Pharma-grade phosphates for medicinal formulations
End Industries Served: Agriculture, Food & Beverages, Pharmaceuticals, Detergents, Water Treatment, Ceramics, Construction
Safety & Handling Information
Hazard Class (GHS): Not classified as dangerous for most phosphates; some may cause irritation
Hazard Statements (H-Codes):
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H319: Causes serious eye irritation (for some salts)
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H315: Causes skin irritation (depending on concentration)
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H335: May cause respiratory irritation (dust)
Precautionary Statements (P-Codes):
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P280: Wear protective gloves/eye protection
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P261: Avoid breathing dust/fume
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P305 + P351 + P338: IF IN EYES – rinse cautiously with water, remove contact lenses if present
Storage Conditions
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Store in a cool, dry, ventilated area
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Keep container tightly closed and protected from moisture
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Avoid contact with strong acids to prevent release of phosphoric acid
Transport Information
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ADR/RID: Not regulated (most phosphates)
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IMDG: Not regulated
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IATA: Not regulated