Phosphotungstic Acid

Phosphotungstic Acid, also known as phosphotungstic acid hydrate, is a type of polyoxometalate, which consists of a central tungsten atom surrounded by twelve oxygen atoms, forming a tungsten oxide cluster.

Chemical Formula: H3PW12O40

Appearance: Yellow to pale yellow crystals or as a yellow powder

Uses:

• Analytical Chemistry: Phosphotungstic acid is widely used as a reagent in analytical chemistry for the detection and determination of substances. It acts as a staining agent for visualizing proteins and other biomolecules on gels in techniques such as polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE) and isoelectric focusing (IEF).

• Pharmaceuticals: Utilized in pharmaceutical analysis for the detection and quantification of alkaloids, carbohydrates, and other organic compounds.

• Coagulant: It can act as a coagulant or flocculant to aid in the precipitation and removal of contaminants, contributing to the purification of water resources.

• Material Science: Phosphotungstic acid is examined for its potential use in the synthesis of functional materials with applications in catalysis, energy storage, and sensing.