← All chemicals

CAS 7664-38-2

Phosphoric acid

Potential EDCCorrosive

Phosphoric acid is a corrosive liquid used to make fertilizers, metal cleaners/rust removers, and to acidify some foods and soft drinks. It matters because strong solutions can burn skin, eyes, and lungs, and even lower levels can irritate or damage teeth when mists are inhaled [1][2].

Where It Comes From

Fertilizer production, metal finishing, rust/scale removers, household and industrial cleaners, beverage and food processing [1][2].

How You Are Exposed

Breathing mists at work; skin or eye contact when using concentrated cleaners or automotive/rust products; accidental swallowing; small amounts in some sodas/processed foods [1][2].

Why It Matters

Causes irritation and chemical burns; eye exposure can lead to serious damage; inhaling mists can trigger cough and shortness of breath; repeated airborne exposure may erode tooth enamel and irritate airways [1][2].

Who Is at Risk

Workers in fertilizer manufacture, metal treatment, car repair/detailing, and janitorial/cleaning; people with asthma or lung disease; anyone using concentrated products without protection [1][2].

How to Lower Your Exposure

Choose less corrosive or diluted products; wear gloves and eye protection; ventilate well; follow labels and avoid mixing cleaners; store securely; at work, use local exhaust and proper PPE [1][2].

References

  1. [1]CDC/NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards: Phosphoric acid (CAS 7664-38-2). https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/npg/
  2. [2]WHO/ILO IPCS. International Chemical Safety Card (ICSC) 0362: Phosphoric acid. https://www.inchem.org/documents/icsc/icsc/eics0362.htm

Track your exposure to Phosphoric acid

Pollution Profile maps your lifetime exposure history to EPA-tracked chemicals.

Get early access

We use cookies and analytics to understand how people use Pollution Profile and improve the experience. We never sell your data. Learn more.