Sulfuric acid is a very important and widely used mineral acid that exists as a colorless, odorless, and highly viscous liquid. This acid is easily soluble in water and its reaction with water is highly exothermic, so great care must be taken when adding it to water to reduce the risks of heat and vapor generation.
This chemical is known as the “king of chemicals” due to its wide applications in various industries, including the chemical industry, fertilizer production, oil refining, and detergent production.
Sulfuric acid was first discovered by the prominent scientist Jabir ibn Hayyan. He produced it by distilling the minerals iron sulfate and copper (II) sulfate. In addition, sulfuric acid can also be produced by dissolving SO3 gas in water.
This acid is available in two types: industrial and laboratory. The laboratory grade is much clearer and purer than the industrial grade and is used for applications that require higher precision and purity. Sulfuric acid is one of the most widely used chemicals in the world and plays a vital role in many industrial processes.
Technical Characteristics
| Chemical Formula | H2SO4 |
| Other names | sulfur ink hydrogen sulfate oil of vitriol |
| CAS Number | 7664-93-9 |
| Molecular mass | 98.078 g/mol |
| Melting Point | 10 °C |
| Boiling Point | 337 °C |
| Appearance | clear and colorless liquid |
Applications
– Fertilizers
– Water and wastewater treatment
– Textile and paint industries
– Explosives
– Pulp & Paper
– Car battery
– Pharmaceutical industries
– Rubber industries
– Oil, gas and petrochemical industries
Environmental impact of Sulfuric acid
Sulfuric acid has significant environmental implications if not handled and disposed of properly. When released into water sources, it lowers the pH, making the environment acidic and potentially harming aquatic life. The acid can also react with other substances, releasing toxic gases like sulfur dioxide. Additionally, improper disposal of sulfuric acid can lead to soil contamination, negatively affecting vegetation and microorganisms. Airborne sulfuric acid mist can contribute to acid rain, which damages ecosystems, corrodes infrastructure, and affects human health.
Safety Measures and Regulations for Handling Sulfuric acid
Sulfuric acid is highly corrosive and requires safety precautions to avoid hazards. Protective equipment such as acid-resistant gloves, goggles, and clothing is essential. It should be added slowly to water, not the other way around, to avoid dangerous reactions. Sulfuric acid should be stored in tight, corrosion-resistant containers away from heat, moisture, and incompatible materials such as organic materials. In the event of a spill, it should be cleaned up immediately with a neutralizing agent such as sodium bicarbonate. Local regulations for transportation, storage, and disposal must be followed.
Packing
Sulfuric acid can be supplied in 20-liter gallons, 220-liter barrels and 1000-liter tankers.