sulfuric acid

Sulfuric acid is one of the strongest, most widely used, and most important inorganic acids in the global chemical industry.
With the chemical formula H₂SO₄, it is a colorless, odorless, oily liquid that is highly corrosive and readily soluble in water, releasing a large amount of heat upon dissolution.

Chemical Structure

• Molecular Formula: H₂SO₄

• Structure: Consists of two hydrogen atoms (H⁺) and one sulfate ion (SO₄²⁻), in which sulfur is centrally bonded to four oxygen atoms.

• Type of Bond: Both covalent and ionic, depending on the solvent environment.

• In aqueous solution, sulfuric acid fully dissociates, releasing two protons (H⁺).

Physical and Chemical Properties

Major Applications of Sulfuric Acid

Chemical and Petrochemical Industries

• Production of chemical fertilizers (phosphates, sulfates)

• Manufacturing of phosphoric acid, sulfonation, and pigments

Battery Industry

• Used as an electrolyte in lead-acid batteries (automotive and industrial)

Detergent and Cosmetic Industries

• Production of surfactants, such as alkylbenzene sulfonates

Metallurgical and Mining Industries

• Pickling of steel, and extraction of copper and zinc

Pharmaceutical and Laboratory Applications

• Used as a catalyst and dehydrating agent in chemical synthesis

Advantages of Sulfuric Acid

• Extremely strong acidity

• Low cost and wide industrial availability

• Versatile across numerous industrial processes

• High hygroscopicity (effective drying agent)

• Stable under proper storage conditions (in compatible containers)

Disadvantages and Limitations

• Highly hazardous to skin, eyes, and the respiratory system

• Exothermic reaction with water — requires great caution during dilution

• Reacts violently with metals, bases, and combustible organic materials

• Difficult handling and transportation — requires strict safety standards

• Environmental risk if spilled or improperly disposed of