*Phosphoric Acid* $H_3PO_4$
Also called: *Orthophosphoric Acid*
### *1. Quick Facts*
**Property** **Detail**
**Appearance** Clear, colorless, odorless, syrupy liquid
**Common Grades** **85% Tech**, **75% Food Grade**, **50-60%** for fertilizer
**pH** ~1.5 in 85% - Strong acid but "gentler" than HCl
**Main Job** Acidulant + Rust remover + Fertilizer + Cleaner
### *2. Grades You’ll Find in Nigeria*
**Grade** **Concentration** **Best For** **Note**
**85% Tech Grade** 85% Detergent, Water treatment, Metal cleaning Most common industrial grade
**Food Grade 75-85%** 75% - 85% Soft drinks, Food Must have NAFDAC + E338
**Fertilizer Grade** 50% - 60% NPK fertilizer, Agriculture Cheaper, less pure
### *3. Top Uses in Nigeria 2026*
**Industry** **What it’s Used For**
**1. Beverages** #1 use. Gives "tang" to Coke, Fanta, energy drinks.