Properties of Sulfuric Acid
Sulfuric acid is a highly corrosive and strong mineral acid. It’s often referred to as the “king of chemicals” because it has high reactivity, dissolves other acids, and is one of the most important and widely used industrial chemicals.
- Alternative names: Dihydrogen sulphate, oil of vitriol, battery acid, dipping acid
- Molecular formula: H2SO4
- Molecular weight: 98 g/mol
- Appearance: Odourless and colourless liquid. Viscous consistency and an acid taste
- Boiling point: 337°C (554°F)
- Melting point: 10°C (51°F)
- Solubility: Miscible in water and alcohol, generating heat
- Decomposition: Decomposes at high temperatures, releasing toxic gases including sulphur oxides
- Corrosivity: Extremely corrosive to metals, with the exception of lead and steel
- pH: 2.75 for a 1mM solution. 0.3 for a 98% solution
- Threshold odour: Most people can detect sulfuric acid at 1 mg/cu m and it becomes irritating at 1.1 mg/cu m
You can buy sulfuric acid from ReAgent in 2.5L and 25L containers. If you’re buying in bulk, we have state-of-the-art facilities that allow us to guarantee a fast turnaround, and we even offer discounts on these bulk quantities.
As leading sulfuric acid suppliers, we offer a wide range of sulfuric acid products in various concentrations for various applications. These include:
Common Uses of Sulfuric Acid
Due to its strength and reactivity, sulfuric acid has countless industrial and scientific uses. Here are some of its most common applications:
- Chemical Synthesis – A critical reactant in producing detergents, dyes, pigments, and synthetic resins
- Fertilisers – Used in chemical mixing processes to make phosphate and ammonium sulphate fertilisers by converting insoluble minerals into plant-available forms
- Batteries – Acts as the electrolyte in lead-acid batteries, facilitating the electrochemical reactions that generate electrical energy
- Petroleum Refining – Used in the alkylation process to create high-octane gasoline and cleaner-burning fuels
- Water Treatment – Adjusts pH levels in industrial processes such as wastewater treatment and boiler feedwater conditioning
- Iron & Steel Processing – Used for pickling and cleaning steel surfaces before galvanisation or coating
- Polymer Industry – Serves as a catalyst in producing plastics like PET and polystyrene
- Laboratory Use – Essential for sample preparation, product development, pH adjustment, digestion, extraction, and reagent preparation
Safety & Storage Guidelines of Sulfuric Acid
Proper storage of sulfuric acid is of utmost importance due to its corrosive and potentially hazardous nature:
- Protective equipment: Always wear appropriate PPE, including acid-resistant gloves, a lab coat, safety goggles or a face shield, and chemical-resistant aprons.
- Ventilation: Always work in a well-ventilated area and use a chemical fume hood to disperse any fumes or vapours that may be produced during handling or storage.
- Storage compatibility: Store sulfuric acid away from incompatible substances, such as strong bases (e.g. sodium hydroxide) and organic materials.
- Containers: Use containers made of compatible materials, like glass, polyethylene, or polypropylene. Avoid metal containers unless they are specifically designed to resist corrosion by sulfuric acid.
- Concentration: Store concentrated sulfuric acid separately from diluted solutions, as mixing the two can generate heat and splattering.
- Cool, dry location: Store sulfuric acid containers in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
- Secondary containment: Use secondary containment systems, such as chemical spill trays or cabinets, to contain potential leaks or spills.
Always refer to this product’s MSDS. Here are some guidelines for its safe handling and storage.
ReAgent Chemicals Quality Guarantee
When you buy sulfuric acid from UK chemical manufacturer, ReAgent, you can buy with confidence knowing that we don’t cut any corners. ReAgent is accredited to multiple ISO standards, giving you unrivalled quality assurances. Every product we offer is manufactured in accordance to the following standards:
- ISO 9001:2015 Quality Standard. This demonstrates our commitment to maintaining a focus on quality in our products, services, and processes. It guarantees consistent quality, enhanced product safety, and full transparency. Our quality standards also extend to our suppliers so you know the materials used in our products are also of impeccable quality.
- ISO 14001:2015 Environmental Standard. This ensures we are always doing our part to minimise waste and work in an environmentally responsible manner. It guarantees environmental impact reduction, resource efficiency, supply chain sustainability, and compliance with environmental laws and regulations.
- ISO 13485:2016 Quality Management Systems Standard. We adhere to the stringent requirements of a QMS specific to the medical devices industry. It guarantees media device safety, traceability, well-documented processes, and product accountability. It also ensures that potential risks associated with medical devices have been thoroughly assessed and addressed.
Use ReAgent as Your Trusted Sulfuric Acid Supplier
At ReAgent, we pride ourselves on our friendly customer service, unmatched quality, and ability to go the extra mile for our customers. Whether you need specific pack sizes, customised labelling, or a bespoke blend, there are a number of industry-leading services at your fingertips when you choose to buy sulfuric acid from ReAgent.
With nearly 50 years’ experience, we are well-placed to handle any and all of your chemical needs. Our online chemical shop is the easiest and most reliable way to buy sulfuric acid today, with 24 hour shipping and bulk discounts. If you need assistance, or something more bespoke, simply call us and a member of staff will be glad to help you before, during, and after your purchase.
Buy sulfuric acid online today, or browse our chemical shop to find more products.