It is second only to sulfuric acid as an industrial acid. Phosphateswere used as builders and water softeners. Phosphoric acid is used as an intermediate in the production of animal feed supplements, water treatment chemicals, metal surface treatments, etching agent, and personal care productssuch as toothpaste.
It is used as a catalyst in the petroleum and polymer industry.
It is used in food as a preservative, an acidulant, and flavor enhancer; it acidifies carbonateddrinks such as Coca Cola and Pepsi, giving them a tangy flavor.
It is also used as arust remover and metal cleaner.
