Phosphotungstic acid

Synonyms

Tungsten hydroxide oxide phosphate (9Cl); Tungstophosphoric acid (8CI); [ChemIDplus]

Category

Acids, Inorganic

Description

White or slightly yellowish-green solid; Somewhat efflorescent; [Merck Index] White or yellow odorless powder; [MSDSonline] Soluble in water; [Hawley

Sources/Uses

Used in analytical chemistry, organic pigments, metal plating baths, organic catalysts, photographic fixing agents, textile antistatic agents, and water-resistance agents for plastics, adhesives, and cement; [Hawley] Used as a biological stain; [Merck Index]

Comments

A strong skin and eye irritant; Molecular formula: H3PW12O40•xH2O; [Hawley] Approximate composition: 24WO3.2H3PO4.48H2O (water content varies); [Merck Index] Corrosive to skin and eyes; [eChemPortal: ERMA] May cause fire on contact with combustible materials; A corrosive substance that can cause injury to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract; Inhalation may cause chemical pneumonitis; [MSDSonline]

Biomedical References

3 mg/m3, as W, respirable particulate matter

Yes

Skin burns

Processes

Industrial Processes with risk of exposure:

• Electroplating
• Photographic Processing
• Textiles (Printing, Dyeing, or Finishing)
• Working with Glues and Adhesives