Introduction
The global phosphoric acid market is projected to grow significantly, with its market size expected to reach USD 71.2 billion by 2033, up from USD 46.3 billion in 2023, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.4% during the forecast period from 2023 to 2033. This growth is primarily driven by the increasing demand for phosphate fertilizers, which are essential for modern agricultural practices to meet the food needs of the growing global population. The Asia-Pacific region, particularly China and India, is expected to lead this growth due to its large agricultural sector and expanding population.
Phosphoric acid is also crucial in various industrial applications, including food additives, where it extends the shelf life of products by preventing the growth of bacteria and mold. The rising demand for convenience foods and beverages further boosts the market. However, environmental concerns and regulatory pressures pose significant challenges to the market. The production and disposal of phosphoric acid involve environmental risks, prompting stricter regulations and sustainability measures.
EuroChem Group AG is a leading global fertilizer producer actively involved in the phosphoric acid sector. The company operates several plants that produce high-quality phosphoric acid, which is essential for manufacturing phosphate fertilizers. EuroChem’s strategic investments in modernizing and expanding its production facilities have enabled it to meet the growing demand for phosphoric acid. The company’s emphasis on innovation and sustainable practices helps it maintain a competitive edge in the global market.
https://www.eurochemgroup.com/?s=phosphoric+acid+
OCP Group S.A. based in Morocco, is a major player in the global phosphoric acid market. The company operates extensive phosphate mining and processing facilities, including the world’s largest fertilizer plant at Jorf Lasfar. OCP’s strategic initiatives, such as the construction of a new plant to double its purified phosphoric acid production capacity, underscore its commitment to meeting global demand and maintaining its leadership in the sector. OCP’s integrated supply chain and focus on sustainability enhance its operational efficiency and environmental stewardship.
Statistics
- Phosphoric acid is a colorless syrup of 85% concentration in water.
- Phosphoric acid is commonly heard in chemical laboratories as an 85% aqueous solution. Phosphoric acid is a colorless, odorless, and non-volatile syrupy liquid.
- Calcium phosphates are commonly used as fertilizers. Superphosphate, containing about 20% P2O5, is produced by reacting sulfuric acid with phosphate rock, When phosphate rock reacts with phosphoric acid instead of sulfuric acid, it produces a more concentrated form of calcium dihydrogen phosphate with a higher P2O5 content of around 55%.
- Pure phosphoric acid is normally in the form of a white crystalline solid. It has a melting point of 42.4 degrees Celsius. The acid is colorless, odorless, and a viscous liquid with a density of 2.030 g.cm. Phosphoric acid is non-toxic and non-volatile.
- The thermal process produces phosphoric acid with a very high concentration of P2O5 (about 85%) and a low level of impurities.
- The thermal process is more expensive and energy-intensive than the wet process, which produces phosphoric acid with a lower concentration of P2O5 (about 26-52%) and a higher level of impurities.
- The heat capacity (C) of the substance is 145.0 J/(mol⋅K). It has a standard molar entropy (S°298) of 150.8 J/(mol⋅K). The standard enthalpy of formation (ΔfH°298) is −1271.7 kJ/mol, and the Gibbs free energy (ΔfG°) is −1123.6 kJ/mol.
- Aqueous solutions up to 62.5% H3PO4 are eutectic, exhibiting freezing-point depression as low as -85°C.
- When the concentration of acid rises above 62.5% the freezing point increases, reaching 21°C by 85% H3PO4 (w/w; the monohydrate).
- Phosphoric acid is commercially available as aqueous solutions of various concentrations, not usually exceeding 85%. If concentrated further it undergoes slow self-condensation, forming an equilibrium with pyrophosphoric acid, Even at 90% concentration the amount of pyrophosphoric acid present is negligible, but beyond 95% it starts to increase, reaching 15% at what would have otherwise been 100% orthophosphoric acid.
- The IUPAC name for the compound is Ortho Phosphoric Acid, and its chemical formula is H3PO4. It has a molar mass of 97.99 g/mol and a density of 2.030 g/cm³. The melting point of Ortho Phosphoric Acid is 42.4°C (108.3°F), and its boiling point is 407°C (765°F).
- It ionizes to give three H+ ions. Hence, its basicity is 3. All three hydrogens are acidic, with pKa1=2.14, pKa2=7.20, and pKa3=12.37 for the first, second, and third hydrogens, respectively.
- The oxidation state of P in H3PO4 is +5.
- According to some statistics, about 80% of the phosphoric acid produced is utilized to make fertilizer, especially phosphate fertilisers like ammonium phosphate.
- Metaphosphoric acid (HPO3) is a colorless, vitreous, deliquescent solid, with a density of 2.2 to 2.5 g/cc, which sublimes upon heating. It is soluble in ethanol.
- The fertilizer segment consumes more than 90% of Phosphoric Acid in India.
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Emerging Trends
Sustainable Practices: Increased focus on environmentally friendly manufacturing processes and sustainable sourcing of raw materials.
Technological Advancements: Innovations in production technology improve efficiency and reduce costs.
Rising Demand in Agriculture: Higher use of phosphoric acid in fertilizers due to global food demand.
Growing Use in Food & Beverage: Expansion in food-grade phosphoric acid applications for preservatives and acidity regulators.
Market Consolidation: Strategic mergers and acquisitions among key players to enhance market presence.
Use Cases
Fertilizers: Over 80% of phosphoric acid production is used in fertilizers, specifically in producing superphosphates and ammonium phosphate. These fertilizers are essential for improving crop yields and meeting global food demand.
Food and Beverage Industry: Phosphoric acid is used as a food additive in colas and other soft drinks to provide a tangy flavor and as a preservative. It also regulates acidity in processed foods.
Rust Removal and Metal Treatment: It acts as a rust converter, transforming rust into a water-soluble compound for easy removal. It’s also used in metal cleaning and surface preparation.
Water Treatment: Phosphoric acid is utilized in water treatment plants to prevent pipe corrosion and reduce lead and copper levels in potable water.
Pharmaceuticals: It serves as an intermediate in the production of various pharmaceutical products and as an acidity regulator in medicines.
Personal Care Products: It’s found in dental products like toothpaste and mouthwash for plaque control and tartar prevention.
Key players
EuroChem Group AG is a leading global fertilizer producer actively involved in the phosphoric acid sector. The company operates several plants that produce high-quality phosphoric acid, which is essential for manufacturing phosphate fertilizers. EuroChem’s strategic investments in modernizing and expanding its production facilities have enabled it to meet the growing demand for phosphoric acid. The company’s emphasis on innovation and sustainable practices helps it maintain a competitive edge in the global market.
OCP Group S.A., based in Morocco, is a major player in the global phosphoric acid market. The company operates extensive phosphate mining and processing facilities, including the world’s largest fertilizer plant at Jorf Lasfar. OCP’s strategic initiatives, such as the construction of a new plant to double its purified phosphoric acid production capacity, underscore its commitment to meeting global demand and maintaining its leadership in the sector. OCP’s integrated supply chain and focus on sustainability enhance its operational efficiency and environmental stewardship.
ICL is a global mineral and chemical manufacturer with great strategic advantages such as unparalleled R&D, high-tech production facilities, and proximity to the Dead Sea for extraction of many compounds including bromine, potassium, magnesium, and others; alongside phosphates, and calcium used for various applications.
PhosAgro Group of Companies is a major player in the phosphoric acid sector, primarily focused on the production of phosphate-based fertilizers. The company’s vertically integrated model allows it to control the entire production process, from mining apatite-nepheline ore to manufacturing high-purity phosphoric acid.
Nutrien Ltd. is a significant player in the phosphoric acid sector, being the second-largest phosphate producer in North America. The company operates two large integrated phosphate facilities and four regional product upgrade facilities in the U.S. Nutrients high-quality phosphate rock is used to produce a diverse range of products, including fertilizers, feed, and industrial acids. The majority of its phosphate products are sold in the North American market, benefiting from extensive distribution networks and strong customer relationships.
The Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative Limited (IFFCO) is a leading cooperative involved in the phosphoric acid sector, focusing on the production and supply of fertilizers. IFFCO’s operations are essential in supporting India’s agricultural sector, providing high-quality phosphoric acid that is used to manufacture various fertilizers, ensuring improved crop yields and agricultural productivity and it is in the form of joint venture.
The Mosaic Company (NYSE: MOS) is the world’s leading integrated producer of concentrated phosphate and potash—two of the three most important nutrients in agriculture. They employ more than 13,000 people in six countries to serve farmers all over the world. The people of Mosaic work with the purpose to maximize efficiencies and minimizing our environmental footprint. They strive to be a thoughtful and engaged neighbor, using their financial resources, expertise, and innovative spirit to commit to good corporate citizenship.
Solvay has completed the sale of its U.S. facility in Charleston, South Carolina, and the phosphorus derivatives-based products made at the plant to German specialty chemicals company Lanxess.
Aditya Birla Chemicals is a key player in the phosphoric acid market, primarily focusing on producing high-quality phosphoric acid for various industrial applications. The company’s phosphoric acid is used in fertilizers, detergents, and other chemical processes. Aditya Birla Chemicals emphasizes technological innovation and quality control to maintain its competitive edge in the sector.
Agropolychim is a notable manufacturer of phosphoric acid, catering mainly to the fertilizer industry. Their production involves advanced technology to ensure high purity and efficiency. Agropolychim’s phosphoric acid finds use in both agriculture and industrial applications. The company’s focus on environmental sustainability and cost-effective production methods strengthens its market presence.
Innophos is a prominent player in the phosphoric acid sector, focusing on producing high-quality phosphorus-based products. They serve a diverse range of industries, including agriculture and food processing. Their phosphoric acid is used to manufacture fertilizers, food additives, and other chemical products. Innophos emphasizes sustainable practices and innovation in their production processes to meet market demands efficiently.
Simplot’s Purified Phosphoric Acid (PPA) is purified by chemical and mechanical methods. The resulting stable acid is a nearly clear source of 75% H3P04 that is suited for use in drip irrigation systems and specialty liquid mixes..R. Simplot Company is a key supplier in the phosphoric acid market, primarily known for its agricultural and industrial applications. They use phosphoric acid mainly for fertilizer production, contributing to enhanced crop yields. Simplot focuses on developing high-performance products while ensuring environmental stewardship and efficiency in their manufacturing processes.
Sterlite Copper, a division of Vedanta Resources, primarily focuses on copper production. Although its core business is copper, the company indirectly impacts the phosphoric acid sector through its by-products and waste management processes. Sterlite Copper’s operations contribute to the overall chemical landscape, including phosphoric acid, by supplying materials and managing waste that can be recycled or used in various chemical processes. This indirect involvement supports the broader chemical industry. Sterlite Copper operates a 400,000 Metric Tonnes Per Annum (MTPA) Copper Smelter with associate facilities such as a Refinery and Copper Rod Plant, a Sulphuric Acid plant of more than 12,00,000 MTPA and a Phosphoric Acid of 220,000 MTPA at Thoothukudi, Tamilnadu. Sterlite Copper also operates a 160 MW coal-based power plant in Thoothkudi, Tamilnadu.
Tunisian Chemical Group (Groupe Chimique Tunisien) is a leading player in the phosphoric acid sector. It operates one of the largest phosphoric acid production facilities in North Africa, utilizing local phosphate rock to produce high-quality phosphoric acid. This production supports the fertilizer industry by providing a critical raw material. The group’s operations are pivotal in the regional market, ensuring a steady supply of phosphoric acid and reinforcing its position in the global chemical sector. Tunisia is the second country in the world to value a large percentage of its phosphate rock production (85%). GCT processes approximately 6.5 million tonnes of Tunisian rock phosphate each year to produce Merchant Phosphoric Acid (MGA), Di-Ammonium Phosphate (DAP), Triple Super Phosphate (TSP) and Calcium Phosphate (DCP) ).
Arkema-Febex is a global player in phosphorus derivatives (high purity phosphoric acid, sodium hypophosphite and derivatives), used primarily in electronics and the pharmaceuticals industry. Part of the Performance Additives Business Line and with little integration within the Group’s other activities, Febex reported sales of around €30 million in 2021, employs 59 people, and operates 1 site in Switzerland.
Conclusion
The demand for phosphoric acid is driven largely by its use in fertilizers, which are essential for global food production. Major producers include Arkema and Tunisian Chemical Group, which contribute significantly to the global supply. Innovations in production technology and sustainable practices are improving efficiency and reducing environmental impacts. There is a growing focus on optimizing phosphoric acid use and exploring new applications to meet evolving industry needs.
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