Description of Sulfuric Acid

Sulfuric Acid (H₂SO₄) is a dense, highly corrosive, colorless to slightly yellow mineral acid. Known as the “king of chemicals,” it is a vital raw material across numerous industrial processes. With reactive and dehydrating properties, sulfuric acid functions as a catalyst, electrolyte, and dehydrating agent in chemical manufacturing, fertilizers, metal processing, and pharmaceuticals. Its high global demand makes it indispensable in industrial operations.

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Physical and Chemical Properties

Understanding sulfuric acid’s properties ensures safe and effective use:

• Chemical Formula: H₂SO₄

• Molar Mass: 98.08 g/mol

• Appearance: Colorless to slightly yellow, oily liquid

• Odor: Pungent

• Density: 1.84 g/cm³ (concentrated)

• Melting Point: 10°C

• Boiling Point: 337°C

• Solubility: Miscible with water; highly exothermic upon dilution

• pH: <1

• Reactivity: Strongly reacts with water, metals, bases, and organic materials

• Corrosiveness: Extremely corrosive to skin, metals, and organic tissues

These characteristics make it indispensable for chemical synthesis, pH control, and industrial processes.

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Types and Grades of Sulfuric Acid

Sulfuric acid is available in several grades for different industrial applications:

• Battery Grade: For lead-acid batteries and automotive applications

• Technical Grade: For chemical processing, wastewater treatment, and industrial manufacturing

• Chemically Pure (CP) Grade: Laboratory and pharmaceutical use

• Oleum (Fuming Sulfuric Acid): For nitration and specialized chemical synthesis

• Diluted Sulfuric Acid Solutions: Custom concentrations for specific industrial processes

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Applications of Sulfuric Acid

Sulfuric acid is used across multiple sectors:

• Fertilizer Manufacturing: Produces phosphoric acid for phosphate-based fertilizers like MAP and DAP

• Battery Industry: Primary electrolyte in lead-acid batteries

• Petroleum Refining: Alkylation processes to improve fuel octane and remove impurities

• Metal Processing & Mining: Leaching of copper, nickel, and zinc

• Chemical Manufacturing: Produces hydrochloric acid, nitric acid, dyes, pigments, and synthetic detergents; often used alongside Caustic Soda Flakes for neutralization and pH adjustment

• Pulp & Paper: pH regulation and pulp digestion

• Water Treatment: Neutralizes alkaline water and adjusts wastewater pH

• Textile & Dye Manufacturing: Acts as a catalyst and pH controller

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Handling and Storage

Sulfuric acid is highly corrosive, requiring proper safety measures:

• Store in corrosion-resistant containers (HDPE drums, IBCs, or ISO tanks) in cool, ventilated areas

• Avoid contact with water, metals, and organic materials

• Use PPE: chemical-resistant gloves, goggles, face shields, and protective clothing

• Neutralize spills with lime or sodium bicarbonate

• In case of contact, rinse skin or eyes immediately with water and seek medical attention

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Packaging Options

Sulfuric acid is offered in packaging suitable for different operational scales:

• 30–250 kg HDPE drums for smaller orders

• 1000-liter Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs) for medium-scale operations

• ISO tank containers for international bulk shipments

• Custom packaging available on request

Container Loading

A standard 20 ft. container can hold approximately 18–20 metric tons in drums or IBCs, ensuring safe and efficient global delivery.

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Technical Data Sheet of Sulfuric Acid (H₂SO₄)

Technical Data Sheets of Sulfuric Acid (For Download TDS Click Here)