Sulfuric Acid (H₂SO₄)
High-purity inorganic acid for industrial and laboratory use
Overview
Sulfuric Acid (CAS No: 7664-93-9) is one of the most produced chemicals globally, serving as a cornerstone of modern industry. It is a colorless, oily, highly soluble, and corrosive liquid.
Industrial-grade sulfuric acid is typically 98-99% pure, widely used in fertilizers, petrochemicals, metal processing, and batteries.
Applications
Sulfuric Acid has diverse industrial and commercial uses:
Fertilizer Production
Primary raw material for phosphate fertilizers.
Petrochemicals
Catalyst in petroleum refining and alkylation.
Metal Processing
Used for surface cleaning and rust prevention.
Battery Industry
Electrolyte in lead-acid batteries.
Chemical Industry
Used in acid production and organic synthesis.
Water Treatment
pH regulator and contaminant remover.
Technical Specifications
| Property | Value | Unit | Test Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | H₂SO₄ | - | - |
| CAS Number | 7664-93-9 | - | - |
| EC Number | 231-639-5 | - | - |
| Molecular Weight | 98.08 | g/mol | - |
| Appearance | Colorless, oily liquid | - | Visual |
| Odor | Odorless | - | - |
| Density (20°C) | 1.84 | g/cm³ | ASTM D4052 |
| Boiling Point | 337 | °C | ASTM D1120 |
| Melting Point | 10 | °C | ASTM D1015 |
| Concentration | 96-98 | % | ASTM E1226 |
| pH Value (0.1M sol.) | 1.0 | - | ASTM E70 |
| Purity | ≥96.0 | % | ASTM E200 |
| Sulfur Dioxide Content | ≤0.01 | % | ASTM D854 |
| Iron (Fe) Content | ≤0.005 | % | ASTM D1068 |
| Lead (Pb) Content | ≤0.005 | % | ASTM D3559 |
Safety Information
Hazard Symbols and Statements
Corrosive Toxic Oxidizer
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- Acid-resistant gloves (neoprene, nitrile, or PVC)
- Face shield or chemical goggles
- Acid vapor-resistant respirator
- Acid-proof apron and boots
- Chemical splash-protective clothing
Storage Conditions
- Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area
- Use stainless steel or polyethylene containers
- Storage temperature: 15-25°C
- Keep away from bases and metals
- Protect from moisture
Fire Fighting Measures
- Non-flammable but oxidizing
- Suitable extinguishers: Dry chemical, CO₂
- Toxic gases released during fire
- Water use is hazardous
Handling and Storage
Handling
- Ensure containers are tightly sealed
- Provide adequate ventilation during transport
- Keep separate from organic materials and bases
- Keep neutralizing materials available for spills
- Avoid contact with metal surfaces
Storage
- Store in stainless steel or polyethylene containers
- Maintain proper signage in storage areas
- Provide secondary containment for tanks
- Keep acid neutralization kits available
- Prevent crystallization at low temperatures
Spill Response
- Evacuate exposed personnel
- Use appropriate PPE
- Neutralize spill with calcium carbonate
- Dispose of absorbed material properly
- Rinse spill area with plenty of water
Regulatory Information
GHS Classification
- Skin Corrosion Category 1A
- Serious Eye Damage Category 1
- Acute Toxicity (Oral) Category 3
- Corrosive to Metals Category 1
Key Regulations
- REACH: Registered
- CLP: Compliant
- Seveso III: Hazardous substance
- ADR: Class 8 Corrosive
- NFPA 704: Health 3, Flammability 0, Reactivity 2
Industry Standards
- ASTM E1177 compliant
- ISO 910 compliant
- USP grade (optional)
- FCC grade (optional)
Environmental Information
Environmental Impact
Sulfuric acid is highly toxic to aquatic environments and can lower pH. It is harmful to soil microorganisms.
Biodegradation
- Water: Neutralizes to sulfate salts
- Soil: Assimilated by microbial activity
- Atmosphere: Forms sulfate aerosols
Waste Management
- Classified as hazardous waste
- Neutralize before disposal at licensed facilities
- Do not discharge into sewers or surface waters
- Follow local regulations for disposal
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is sulfuric acid called the "king of chemicals"?
Due to its high production volume and wide industrial applications, it is a cornerstone of modern industry.
What should I do if sulfuric acid contacts skin?
Rinse with water for at least 15 minutes, remove contaminated clothing, and seek medical attention. For eye contact, seek immediate medical help.
How is sulfuric acid diluted?
Always add acid to water, never water to acid. Stir slowly and monitor heat generation.
Why can sulfuric acid be stored in metal containers?
High-concentration sulfuric acid forms a protective sulfate layer on steel surfaces.
What’s the difference between sulfuric acid and hydrochloric acid?
Sulfuric acid is denser and oilier, while hydrochloric acid is volatile. Sulfuric acid also acts as a dehydrating agent.