Products
Pure sulfuric acid is available in specialized stores. It is one of the most important chemicals and millions of tons of it are produced annually. Concentrated sulfuric acid should not be given to private individuals in our view because of the potential risk.
Structure and properties
The sulfuric acid (H2SO4, Mr = 98.1 g/mol) exists as a colorless, odorless, oily, and very hygroscopic liquid. Various concentrations are used, including concentrated sulfuric acid at 98%. The acid can be produced from sulfur or from its combustion product, sulfur dioxide, with oxygen and water, among other things. Its salts are called sulfates – examples include magnesium sulfate (Epsom salt), sodium sulfate (Glauber’s salt) and calcium sulfate (gypsum). Sulfuric acid has a higher density than water. It also occurs naturally, for example near volcanoes or after volcanic eruptions due to the release of sulfur dioxide.
Effects
Sulfuric acid is a strong, corrosive mineral acid with dehydrating and oxidizing properties. The pKa values are -3 and 1.99. Sulfuric acid removes water from the environment and other chemicals and substances. For example, when starch is mixed with sulfuric acid, carbon is formed, resulting in black coloration. With some elemental metals, such as elemental iron or magnesium, the acid forms sulfates (see, for example, under ferrous sulfate).
Areas of application
In pharmacy, sulfuric acid is used for chemical syntheses, to adjust pH, as an excipient as a cleaning agent, and as a reagent, among other uses. It is also important for the production of active ingredient salts, because many active ingredients exist as sulfates.
Dosage
In the preparation of dilutions, the acid must be put in front and then the water must be added in portions in a thin stream (“First the water, then the acid, otherwise the monstrous thing will happen”). Stirring should be done at the same time. It must be noted that a lot of heat is released during the exothermic reaction.
Abuse
The sulfuric acid can be misused for the illegal production of explosives such as nitroglycerin. To do this, it is mixed with nitric acid, creating what is known as nitrating acid. Explosives made with nitrating acid include cellulose nitrate, nitroglycerin, picric acid and TNT. Therefore, sulfuric acid is one of the precursors for explosives.
Adverse effects
Sulfuric acid can cause, among other things, severe skin burns and severe eye damage if handled improperly. Therefore, the information in the safety data sheet must be carefully followed. Precautionary measures include the wearing of protective gloves, protective clothing and eye and face protection. In case of accidental contact, rinse extensively with water. The vapors must not be inhaled. Ingestion of sulfuric acid is life threatening. Work with the acid should be performed under the fume hood and behind the glass.
