If you’re considering using phosphoric acid, there are some things that you need to know before using it. Things like what it’s commonly used for and ways to take care of yourself if you accidentally ingest it or get it in your eyes.
We won’t keep you waiting any longer let’s get right into this brief guide starting with some of the most common uses for phosphoric acid.
Removal of Rust
When something has become rusted, it’s going to take much more than soap and water to remove the rust. And that’s when phosphoric acid comes into play. Because of its acid properties, all you have to do is mix equal parts of the acid with water and pour it onto the area affected by the rust.
As the rust sits on the surface, you’ll notice the acid begins to eat away the rust until it can be washed away.
Cleaning Products
Various cleaning products use a phosphoric acid formula to create an agent that can power through the toughest of stains without you having to scrub hard. When you’re looking for products to use in your home, checking the ingredients for this acidic ingredient will give you the added guarantee that you need to ensure you’re not wasting money on a stain remover that won’t work.
Teeth Whitener
You may be wondering why after everything you’ve read, you’d want to use phosphoric acid to whiten your teeth. Dentists and whitening products mix the right amount of acid into their whitening products to ensure patients aren’t harmed during the process.
When using whitening products, you must pay attention to the instructions to ensure that you’ve not left it on your teeth too long. Teeth whitening does wear down the enamel of your teeth, making them more sensitive to hot and cold temperatures.
Now that we’ve discussed the uses of phosphoric acid we can now move into safety tips and what to do if you come in contact with phosphoric acid.
Wear a Mask
Whenever you’re working in close quarters with phosphoric acid, ensure that you wear a mask and are working in a well-ventilated area. If you must be in an enclosed area ensure that you take breaks and get fresh air as much as possible.
In severe cases, you may need to seek the attention of a medical professional.
Wear Protective Clothing
When working with phosphoric acid, wear the correct hazmat gear that will act as a barrier between your skin and the acid. If you do happen to get the acid on your skin you will need to immediately cleanse the area with warm soap and water.
After you’ve done this you will need to have a medical professional take a look to ensure that no further damage has been done.
Don’t Ingest
The best way to keep from ingesting the solution is to wear a covering over your mouth.
If it does get in your mouth, the last thing you want to do is vomit. Instead, monitor yourself, and if your condition worsens, seek medical attention immediately.
Conclusion
When it comes to phosphoric acid, you need to know what it’s used for and how to handle it safely. From protective masks to well-ventilated areas, you need to ensure you take all of the precautions necessary.
