Phosphorus

Phosphorus: uses

The following uses for phosphorus are gathered from a number of sources as well as from anecdotal comments. I'd be delighted to receive corrections as well as additional referenced uses (please use the feedback mechanism to add uses).

• used in the manufacture of safety matches, pyrotechnics, incendiary shells, smoke bombs, tracer bullets, etc.
• fertilisers
• phosphates are used in the production of special glasses, such as those used for sodium lamps
• bone-ash, calcium phosphate, is used to produce fine chinaware and to produce monocalcium phosphate used in baking powder
• important in the production of steels, phosphor bronze, and many other products
• Na₃PO₄ is important as a cleaning agent, as a water softener, and for preventing boiler scale and corrosion of pipes and boiler tubes
• pesticides

WebElements Shop

WebElements now has an online shop at which you can buy periodic table posters, mugs, T-shirts, games, molecular models, and more.