Uses of Phosphate
Phosphorus is one of the most important chemical elements for plants and animals and is involved in all vital functions. Plants obtain phosphorus from the soil, while animals obtain it from the plants they eat. This highlights the importance of phosphate in human life. Some uses of phosphate can be summarized as follows:
1- Fertilizer Production: This represents about (77%) of phosphate uses. Phosphate reacts with acids to produce superphosphate, nitrogen phosphate, and compound fertilizers. Phosphate rock can also be ground and added directly to acidic soils. This method represents about (4%) of phosphate uses. Superphosphate contains (14-25%) of phosphorus pentoxide, while nitrogen phosphate and compound fertilizers contain (40-45%) of phosphorus pentoxide that is biodegradable and absorbable. 2- Phosphorus and Phosphoric Acid Production: This industry represents approximately 8% of phosphate uses and employs it in the treatment of metal surfaces such as aluminum, copper, and nickel-plated iron, as well as in chemical detergents and pesticides.
3- Phosphate as Livestock Feed: This industry represents approximately 6% of phosphate uses, where calcined phosphate containing a small percentage of fluorine is used to feed livestock.
4- Various Phosphate Industries: These represent 5% of phosphate uses and are employed in industrial and household laundry detergents.