Description
Sulphuric acid (Hâ‚‚SOâ‚„) is a strong, highly corrosive mineral acid. It is a dense, oily, colourless to slightly yellow liquid that is odourless and mixes readily with water, releasing significant heat. It is one of the most widely used industrial chemicals in the world.
Common Uses
Sulphuric acid is used across many industries, including:
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Fertiliser production (e.g., manufacture of ammonium sulphate and phosphate fertilisers)
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Battery acid in lead–acid car batteries
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Metal processing (pickling/cleaning metals, removing rust)
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Chemical manufacturing (dyes, detergents, pharmaceuticals)
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Petroleum refining
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Wastewater treatment
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pH adjustment in industrial processes
Key Properties
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Formula: Hâ‚‚SOâ‚„
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Appearance: Colourless to slightly yellow viscous liquid
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Boiling point: ~337°C
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Highly exothermic when mixed with water
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Strong dehydrating agent (removes water from organic materials)
Uses
Common Uses
Sulphuric acid is used across many industries, including:
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Fertiliser production (e.g., manufacture of ammonium sulphate and phosphate fertilisers)
-
Battery acid in lead–acid car batteries
-
Metal processing (pickling/cleaning metals, removing rust)
-
Chemical manufacturing (dyes, detergents, pharmaceuticals)
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Petroleum refining
-
Wastewater treatment
-
pH adjustment in industrial processes
Hazards
Hazards
Sulphuric acid is extremely dangerous if mishandled.
Health Hazards
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Causes severe skin burns and eye damage
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Highly irritating and corrosive to the respiratory tract
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Can cause permanent scarring or blindness
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Inhalation of mist may cause lung damage
Physical Hazards
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Reacts violently with water—always add acid to water, never the reverse
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Reacts with many substances (metals, organics) releasing heat or flammable gases such as hydrogen
Safe Handling
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Use appropriate PPE: gloves, goggles, face shield, chemical-resistant clothing
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Ensure good ventilation or use in fume hood
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Store in acid-resistant containers away from bases, metals, and organics
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For spills: neutralise with sodium bicarbonate or similar neutraliser
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