Sulfuric acid, fuming
Fuming sulfuric acid (CAS 8014-95-7), also known as oleum, is a highly concentrated solution of sulfur trioxide (SO3) in sulfuric acid (H2SO4). This powerful dehydrating and oxidizing agent is characterised by its ability to release SO3 fumes. It is essential in various industrial processes, including the production of detergents, dyes, explosives, and in petroleum refining for sulfonation and alkylation reactions.
- IUPAC
- Oleum
- Synonyms
- OleumPyrosulfuric acidSulfuric acid, monohydrate-sulfur trioxideH2SO4 · (SO3)x
Sulfonation Agent
Fuming sulfuric acid is a potent sulfonation agent used in the synthesis of organic compounds, such as detergents and dyes, by introducing the sulfonic acid group.
Industrial Synthesis
It serves as a critical reagent in the chemical industry for processes like nitration, alkylation, and manufacturing of explosives and pharmaceuticals.
Petroleum Refining
Used in petroleum refining to remove impurities and for alkylation processes to improve gasoline quality.
Dehydrating Agent
Its strong dehydrating properties make it effective in chemical syntheses requiring the removal of water.
| Molecular weight | 98.08 |
|---|---|
| Linear formula | H2SO4 · (SO3)x |
| Assay | 26.0-29.5% free SO3 basis (ACS specification)30% free SO3 basis |
| Density | 1.925 g/mL at 25 °C(lit.) |
| Concentration | 60.0-63.0% |
| Vapour pressure | 2 mmHg (25 °C) |
| Vapour density | 3 (vs air) |
Hazard statements
- H314Causes severe skin burns and eye damage
- H335May cause respiratory irritation
Precautionary statements
- P261Avoid breathing dust, fume, gas or vapours
- P280Wear protective gloves, clothing and eye/face protection
- P305IF IN EYES
- P310Immediately call a POISON CENTER or doctor
| Protective equipment | Faceshields, full-face respirator (US), Gloves, Goggles, multi-purpose combination respirator cartridge (US), type ABEK (EN14387) respirator filter |
|---|---|
| Transport (UN / ADR) | UN 1831 8/PG 1 |
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 1 |
| Hazard codes (EU) | C |
| Risk statements (R) | 14-35-37 |
| Safety statements (S) | 26-30-45 |
| Supplemental hazards | Reacts violently with water. |
| Cation traces | As: ≤0.03 ppmFe: ≤2 ppmNH4+: ≤3 ppm |
| Anion traces | nitrate (NO3-): ≤1 ppm |
| Ignition residue | ≤0.002% |
Hazard information is provided for guidance. Always consult the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS), available on request, before handling.
Documentation
Every batch ships with a Certificate of Analysis covering assay, identity and purity; the grade is confirmed against your enquiry. Safety Data Sheets and technical data sheets are available on request.
Supply & logistics
Samples for technical evaluation; bulk MOQ by grade and packaging. In-stock material ships in 7–10 working days, worldwide, with full export documentation.
What is fuming sulfuric acid used for?
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Fuming sulfuric acid, or oleum, is used as a potent sulfonation agent in the synthesis of detergents and dyes, in petroleum refining, and as a strong dehydrating and oxidizing agent in various chemical manufacturing processes, including the production of explosives and pharmaceuticals.
What is the CAS number and formula for fuming sulfuric acid?
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The CAS number for fuming sulfuric acid is 8014-95-7, and its formula is H2SO4 · (SO3)x.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?
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Tech Serve Solutions supplies fuming sulfuric acid with an assay of 26.0-29.5% free SO3 basis (ACS specification) or 30% free SO3 basis. This product is not represented as USP, BP, or EP grade.
How should fuming sulfuric acid be handled safely?
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Fuming sulfuric acid is highly corrosive and reacts violently with water. It causes severe skin burns and eye damage, and may cause respiratory irritation. Always use appropriate personal protective equipment, including faceshields, respirators, gloves, and goggles, and handle in a well-ventilated area. Refer to the safety data sheet for detailed handling instructions.
How is fuming sulfuric acid packed, shipped, and exported?
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Fuming sulfuric acid is shipped as UN 1831, Hazard Class 8, Packing Group I. Tech Serve Solutions adheres to all international regulations for the safe packing, shipping, and export of hazardous chemicals.
How can I request a quote or sample?
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To request a quote or a sample of fuming sulfuric acid, please contact the Tech Serve Solutions sales team through our website or by phone.
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