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Sulfuric acid is the most commonly used chemical in the world. Sometimes referred to as the “King of Chemicals,” sulfuric acid is manufactured around the globe. China is the largest consumer (followed by the United States), and Canada is the largest exporter. Each year, approximately 265 million metric tons (MT) are produced.

It is estimated that the market for sulfuric acid will exceed 300 million MT over the next several years, representing a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 3%.

This growth is largely fueled by demand for agriculture, chemical and automotive manufacturing, metal processing and petroleum refining. Sulfuric acid is widely used in the production of fertilizers, pesticides, metals, detergents, gasoline, paints, paper, plastics and batteries. Sulfuric acid is produced from sulfur, through a process that involves five steps, which require a number of applications.

Sulfuric acid is a dangerous and corrosive chemical, classified as a human carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). Exposure from inhalation, ingestion or skin contact can cause kidney and lung damage, and severe exposure can cause chemical pneumonitis or pulmonary edema.

What makes sulfuric acid so dangerous is its exothermic reaction with water. When introduced to water or moisture, the solution reacts to create hydronium ions. This reaction releases large amounts of heat to the environment so strong that concentrated sulfuric acid can char paper by itself.

An Ideal Application for Sealless Pumps

External emissions are one of the biggest issues relating to pumping equipment used in sulfuric acid production. More than 85% of pump failures involve a mechanical seal failure or leakage through static seals.

When it comes to pumping sulfuric acid, leaks are to be avoided at all costs. One of the best ways to avoid leaks is to use sealless pumps. Sealless pumps operate much like conventional centrifugal pumps, but instead of packed glands or seals, they feature a sealless static containment shell that forms a completely sealed liquid end or pressure boundary.

Magnetic drive sealless pumps are hermetically sealed, eliminating any potential for leaks or emissions.