Oleum
Fuming Sulfuric Acid, Pyrosulfuric Acid, H2SO4·xSO3.
- CAS
- 8014-95-7
- EC
- 231-639-5
- Sectors
- Home Care & Industrial Cleaning, Oil, Gas & Energy
Oleum (CAS 8014-95-7), also known as fuming sulfuric acid, is a solution of sulfur trioxide in sulfuric acid supplied in Technical Grade concentrations such as 20% or 65%, and serves heavy chemical manufacturing as a powerful sulfonating and dehydrating agent for detergents, dyes and petroleum additives. This reagent is essential for processes requiring high-strength acidity or the removal of water during chemical reactions. Its High Reactivity makes it a critical component in the production of explosives, dyes, and advanced petroleum additives. Given its hazardous nature, Oleum is managed under specialized industrial safety protocols. It reacts violently with water to release heat and thick acid mists, necessitating advanced containment and specialized handling equipment in all industrial facilities.
Oleum
Applications
- [Sulfonation Processes]: Primary reagent for the production of detergents, dyes, and linear alkylbenzene sulfonates (LAS).
- [Petroleum Refining]: Used in the alkylation and purification of petroleum fractions to improve fuel quality.
- [Explosives Manufacturing]: Acts as a dehydrating agent in the nitration of organic compounds to produce TNT and nitrocellulose.
Safety & Risks
Classified as Skin Corr. 1A and Acute Tox. 2; causes severe burns and is fatal if inhaled. Requires Acid-Proof Suits, Supplied Air Respirators, and Emergency Neutralization Systems.
Packaging
Supplied in specialized Steel Tank Containers, ISO Tanks, and dedicated bulk rail tankers.