Sulfuric acid is a highly versatile industrial chemical with diverse applications. It is used in the production of fertilizers, explosives, dyes, pigments, and various other chemicals. It also plays a role in oil refining, metal processing, and as an electrolyte in lead-acid batteries.
- Fertilizers: A major use is in the production of phosphate fertilizers like lime superphosphate and ammonium sulfate.
- Chemicals: It's used in the manufacture of other acids (like hydrochloric and nitric acid), salts, detergents, and pharmaceuticals.
- Explosives: Sulfuric acid is involved in the production of explosives like nitroglycerin, TNT, and dynamite.
- Dyes and pigments: It is used in the production of various dyes and pigments.
- Other products: It is also used in the manufacture of rayon, film, and glues.
- Oil refining: Sulfuric acid is used to purify petroleum by removing impurities.
- Metal processing: It is used in metal cleaning (pickling), copper smelting, and electroplating.
- Metal production: It's used in the production of iron and steel, as well as in the manufacture of zinc.
- Wastewater treatment: It is used in some wastewater treatment processes.
- Storage batteries: Sulfuric acid serves as the electrolyte in lead-acid storage batteries, like those used in automobiles.
- Dehydrating agent: Concentrated sulfuric acid is a strong dehydrating agent, used to remove water from various substances.
- Cleaning products: It is used in some household cleaning products, like drain unblockers.
- Other: It is also used in the production of rayon, paper, and textiles.