Sulfuric Acid

Technical Sulfuric Acid (Kt I) is a colorless, odorless liquid with a strong affinity for water. When it dissolves in water, it reacts violently, releasing significant amounts of heat. Due to its high affinity for water, sulfuric acid is also an effective dehydrating agent.

Sulfuric acid is primarily produced via the Contact Process, where sulfur dioxide (SO₂) is oxidized in the air, in the presence of a vanadium catalyst, to form sulfur trioxide (SO₃). The sulfur trioxide is then absorbed into water or diluted sulfuric acid to produce concentrated sulfuric acid.

This substance is highly caustic and poses significant hazards. It can cause severe, difficult-to-heal burns upon contact with skin, and proper safety precautions must be taken when handling it.

Application and Uses

Sulfuric acid is widely used across various industries due to its versatility. In the chemical industry, it plays a key role in producing inorganic and organic chemicals, including fertilizers, and acts as a catalyst in numerous processes. It is also essential in the pharmaceutical sector to produce active ingredients and chemical synthesis. In agriculture, sulfuric acid is used in fertilizer production and soil pH adjustment. The mining industry relies on sulfuric acid for mineral and ore extraction, particularly in the processing of metals like copper and zinc. It is also crucial in electrolytic processes, such as battery manufacturing (e.g., lead-acid batteries) and electroplating. Additionally, sulfuric acid is used for surface cleaning and etching, gas production and absorption (such as hydrogen and chlorine), and as a powerful dehydrating agent in drying and organic synthesis. Finally, it is used for pH adjustment in industrial processes and water treatment.

Packing and Transportation

Technical sulfuric acid (Kt I) is delivered either in rail cisterns labeled according to RID regulations or by road transport in containers approved for sulfuric acid under ADR regulations. Alternatively, it can be transported in consumer containers that are U/N approved and coded for acid transport.

The product is classified as a hazardous material under ADR and RID regulations:

• Class: 8
• Classification code: C1
• Packing group: II
• Hazard identification number: 80
• UN number: 1830

All transport must adhere to hazardous materials regulations, with containers securely fastened to prevent displacement during transit. Transport vehicles and containers must be appropriately labeled and approved for hazardous material transport.

Storage

Technical sulfuric acid (Kt I) must be stored in tanks, cisterns, or specially designed containers, ensuring that the product is protected from freezing. The storage area should maintain a temperature above 5°C to preserve the acid’s stability and safety.