Sulfurihappoa

Sulfurihappoa, commonly known as sulfuric acid, is a mineral acid with the chemical formula H2SO4. It is one of the most widely produced and used chemicals in industry, providing strong acidity and powerful dehydrating properties. The liquid is colorless to slightly yellow with age, highly viscous, and completely miscible with water, releasing substantial heat when diluted.

Concentrated sulfurihappoa (about 98%) is a dense, corrosive liquid with a density of approximately 1.84 g/cm3 at 25°C. It is highly hygroscopic and reacts violently with water and with many organic materials. It acts as a drying agent and, at high concentrations, can produce oleum (H2SO4·SO3) by absorbing sulfur trioxide. Handling requires corrosion-resistant equipment and strict controls to manage heat release.

Industrial production uses the contact process: sulfur is burned to sulfur dioxide, which is oxidized to sulfur trioxide over a vanadium(V) oxide catalyst, and the SO3 is absorbed in water or already produced sulfuric acid to form H2SO4. The process yields large volumes for fertilizer manufacture and numerous chemical syntheses.

Major applications include phosphate fertilizer production, mineral processing, petroleum refining, lead-acid batteries, and various cleaners and chemical reagents. It also serves in metal finishing and paper production. Safety considerations are critical: sulfurihappoa is highly corrosive to skin, eyes, and mucous membranes, can cause severe burns, and may release toxic fumes when heated or mixed with incompatible substances. It should be stored in corrosion-resistant containers, away from water and organic materials, and disposed of according to regulatory guidelines.