Sharing knowledge about hazardous chemicals: The functions and hazards of sulfuric acid

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Sulfuric acid (chemical formula: H2SO4) is the most important oxygen-containing acid of sulfur. Anhydrous sulfuric acid is a colorless oily liquid that crystallizes at 10.36°C. Generally, aqueous solutions of various concentrations are used; these are produced by the tower method and the contact method. 　　Sulfuric acid is one of the most reactive strong dibasic inorganic acids; it can react with many metals. Concentrated sulfuric acid has strong hygroscopic properties and can be used as a dehydrating agent for substances containing carbohydrates, such as carbonized wood, paper, cotton and linen fabrics, and biological tissues. When mixed with water, it also releases a large amount of heat energy. It has strong corrosive and oxidizing properties; therefore, it must be used with caution. It is an important industrial raw material that can be used in the production of fertilizers, pharmaceuticals, **, pigments, detergents, batteries, etc. It is also widely utilized in industries such as petroleum purification, metal smelting, and dye manufacturing. It is commonly used as a chemical reagent, and can be employed as a dehydrating agent and sulfonating agent in organic synthesis. 　　Sulfuric acid is highly corrosive. When pure sulfuric acid is heated to 290°C, it decomposes, releasing some sulfur trioxide until its concentration drops to 98.3%. At this point, sulfuric acid becomes an azeotropic solution with a boiling point of 338°C ； Sulfuric acid has dehydrating properties; dehydration refers to the process by which concentrated sulfuric acid removes water molecules that are not in a free state, or removes hydrogen and oxygen elements from organic compounds according to their ratio in the water molecule. Sulfuric acid also has oxidizing properties; it can react with metals, non-metals, as well as other reducing substances. 　　I. Properties of sulfuric acid
1. It can react with most metals (those more reactive than copper) and the vast majority of metal oxides, producing the corresponding sulfates and water ； 　　2. It can react with salts whose acid corresponding to the anion present has a weaker acidity than that of sulfate, to produce the corresponding sulfate and weak acid ； 　　3. It can react with bases to produce the corresponding sulfate and water ； 　　4. It can react with metals preceding hydrogen under certain conditions to produce the corresponding sulfates and hydrogen gas ； 　　5. It can catalyze the hydrolysis of proteins, disaccharides, and polysaccharides under heating conditions ； 　　6. It can react with indicators, turning purple litmus solution red and leaving colorless phenolphthalein solution unchanged. 　　II. Applications of sulfuric acid
In the metallurgical and petroleum industries, it is used in the production of chemical fibers; viscose silk is a common example. It is also utilized in the dyeing industry and for improving soil quality as well as in the production of fertilizers. 　　III. Risks in the sulfuric acid industry
Sulfuric acid (especially in high concentrations) can cause severe damage to skin and flesh. Like other corrosive strong acids and bases, sulfuric acid can rapidly undergo amide hydrolysis and ester hydrolysis with proteins and fats, thereby breaking down biological tissues and causing chemical burns. 　　Although sulfuric acid is not flammable, it releases flammable hydrogen gas when it reacts with metals, which can lead to explosions. As a strong oxidizing agent, concentrated sulfuric acid releases toxic sulfur dioxide during redox reactions with metals, posing a threat to the health of workers. 　　IV. First aid measures In the event of sulfuric acid coming into contact with the skin, it is necessary to rinse the area thoroughly with water, followed by application of a 3%–5% sodium bicarbonate solution, and seek medical attention promptly. If it gets into the eyes, immediately lift the eyelids and thoroughly rinse with plenty of running water or saline for at least 15 minutes. Seek medical attention promptly. If vapor is inhaled, one should immediately leave the area and go to a place with fresh air. Keep the airway clear. If there is difficulty breathing, administer oxygen. If breathing stops, perform artificial respiration immediately. Seek medical attention promptly. In case of accidental ingestion, rinse the mouth with water, give milk or egg white to drink, and seek medical attention immediately. 　　V. Storage Method Store in a cool and well-ventilated warehouse. The storage temperature should not exceed 35°C, and the relative humidity should not exceed 85%. Keep the container sealed. Stay away from flames and heat sources; smoking is strictly prohibited in the workplace. Keep away from flammable and combustible materials. Prevent steam from leaking into the workplace air. Avoid contact with reducing agents, alkalis, and alkali metals. Handle with care during transportation to prevent damage to the packaging and containers. Equipped with fire-fighting equipment of appropriate types and quantities, as well as emergency response equipment for leaks. Empty containers may retain harmful substances. When diluting or preparing solutions, the acid should be added to water to avoid boiling and splashing that could harm people. The above covers the sharing of knowledge regarding hazardous chemicals, including the functions and hazards of sulfuric acid. Shanghai Jianmo is a company specialized in providing business-related services; it operates in Jing’an District, Shanghai, and specializes in handling matters such as the issuance of permits for handling hazardous chemicals and refined oil products, as well as the renewal of such permits. The company also assists with the registration of hazardous chemicals companies in Shanghai and provides registered office addresses. If you need such services, feel free to contact our customer service team for more details and to stay informed about the latest developments in this industry.