Phosphoric acid (also known as orthophosphoric acid or phosphoric (V) acid) is a weak acid with the chemical formula H3PO4. Orthophosphoric acid refers to phosphoric acid, which is the IUPAC name for this compound. The prefix ortho- is used to distinguish the acid from related phosphoric acids, called polyphosphoric acids. Orthophosphoric acid is a non-toxic acid, which, when pure, is a solid at room temperature and pressure.
The demand for phosphoric acid is primarily driven by the increasing demand for the production of phosphate fertilizers, which is closely related to the growing population worldwide.
The global phosphoric acid market was valued at US$ 13,399.62 Mn in 2017 and is anticipated to register a stable CAGR of 3.0% from 2018 to 2026. The global phosphoric acid market is driven by rise in the demand for phosphate fertilizers.
Phosphoric acid and its phosphate by-products can be used for sequestration of metal ions along with precipitation, pH control, nutrient source, scale inhibition, water fluoridation, lead precipitation agent, corrosion inhibitor, acidity regulator, synergy with surfactants, alkalizing capacity, dispersing agent, buffer agent, and softening and complexion agent. Phosphoric acid can be classified according to its use in metal treatment industry and detergents industry.
India phosphoric acid market was dominated by fertilizer grade in 2015, and the segment is forecast to continue its dominance in the coming years, on account of large quantities of phosphoric acid required for production of phosphate fertilizers. West India accounted for the largest share in the country’s phosphoric acid market in 2015, and the region is expected to remain the largest consumer through 2021, predominantly owing to presence of major fertilizer manufacturing industries in Gujarat and Maharashtra.