Sulfuric acid: Overview
Description
Sulfuric acid is the world's largest volume industrial chemical. The main use is in the production of phosphate fertilizers. It is used to manufacture explosives, other acids, dyes, glue, wood preservatives, and automobile batteries. It is used in the purification of petroleum, the pickling of metal, copper smelting, electroplating, metal work, and the production of rayon and film.
Substance details
Substance name: Sulfuric acid
CASR number: 7664-93-9
Molecular formula: H2SO4
Synonyms: Oil of vitriol; Dipping Acid; Vitriol Brown Oil; Sulfuric; Acid mist; Hydrogen sulfate; Sulfur Acid; Sulphuric Acid; Sulphine acid; battery acid
Physical properties
Sulfuric acid is a clear, colourless, oily liquid.
Melting Point: 10.35°C
Boiling Point: 315-338°C
Vapour Density: 3.4
Specific Gravity: 1.84
Chemical properties
Sulfuric acid is very reactive and corrosive. It is soluble in water and ethyl alcohol. Its strong reactivity may ignite organic material (light paper, or other combustible materials) if mixed together.
Further information
The National Pollutant Inventory (NPI) holds data for all sources of Sulfuric acid in Australia.
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