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Sulfuric
H2SO4 30% to 96% — battery, technical & ACS grade
7 products
About Sulfuric
About Sulfuric Acid
Sulfuric acid (CAS No. 7664-93-9) is a highly corrosive mineral acid with the molecular formula H₂SO₄, widely recognized as the most produced industrial chemical in the world. It functions as a powerful dehydrating agent, a strong oxidizer at high concentrations, and a fundamental reagent in chemical synthesis, metal processing, and energy storage. This diprotic acid is colorless, odorless, and viscous, serving as the primary electrolyte in lead-acid batteries and a critical component for industrial pH adjustment.
Common Applications
- Lead-Acid Battery Electrolyte: Utilizing 37% (1.265-1.285 S.G.) concentrations to facilitate ion transfer in automotive and industrial batteries.
- Metal Pickling: Removing rust, scale, and surface impurities from iron and steel at temperatures between 100°F and 150°F.
- Type II Anodizing: Creating a durable, corrosion-resistant oxide layer on aluminum substrates using a controlled sulfuric acid bath.
- Chemical Synthesis: Serving as a primary feedstock for the production of phosphoric acid, fertilizers, sulfate salts, and synthetic fibers.
- Concrete Surface Preparation: Using technical-grade 93% concentrations to etch concrete surfaces or remove deep carbonation stains in industrial maintenance.
- Water Treatment: Adjusting pH levels in municipal and industrial wastewater systems to optimize the efficiency of coagulation and flocculation chemicals.
- Laboratory Analysis: Employing 96% ACS Reagent Grade as a standardized reagent for analytical titrations and moisture removal in desiccators.
What We Carry
Alliance Chemical stocks sulfuric acid in multiple purity levels to meet specific industrial and laboratory standards. Available concentrations range from 37% (Battery Acid) to 96% (ACS Reagent Grade), available in packaging from 1-quart bottles to 330-gallon IBC totes.
| Grade | Concentration | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| ACS Reagent | 95-98% | Analytical chemistry, pharmaceutical synthesis, electronics |
| Technical | 93% | Industrial cleaning, metal etching, pH regulation |
| Electrolyte | 37% - 50% | Battery manufacturing, forklift power, energy storage |
| Commercial | 70% | Fertilizer production, textile processing, wood pulp treatment |
Safety & Handling
Sulfuric acid is classified under GHS Category 1A for skin corrosion and Category 1 for serious eye damage (GHS05 Corrosion). Handling requires specialized PPE, including acid-resistant gloves (Viton or heavy Nitrile), chemical splash goggles, a full face shield, and a protective chemical apron. Store in high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or specially lined steel containers away from water, organic materials, and strong bases to avoid violent exothermic reactions. Compliance with OSHA 29 CFR 1910.1200 (HazCom) and DOT 49 CFR (Hazardous Materials Regulations for Class 8 Corrosives) is mandatory for workplace safety and transit. In the event of exposure, immediately flush the area with tepid water for a minimum of 20 minutes and contact emergency services. Link to Safety Data Sheets.
Sourcing & Quality
Shipped from Taylor, Texas — same-day on in-stock items.
COA included with every order. Certificate of Analysis documents lot-specific purity and specifications.
28 years serving 55,000+ customers including 244 federal contracts.
✓ SDS Included ✓ COA Available &zap; Same-Day Shipping ☆ No Minimum Order
Last updated: March 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What concentration of sulfuric acid is used for battery acid?
The standard concentration for lead-acid battery electrolyte is 37% sulfuric acid, which corresponds to a specific gravity of approximately 1.280 at 25°C. High-performance or deep-cycle batteries may occasionally use concentrations closer to 50% for initial charging protocols. Using higher concentrations than 37% in a standard automotive battery can cause rapid grid corrosion and permanent plate damage.
How do you neutralize a sulfuric acid spill in an industrial setting?
According to industrial safety protocols and OSHA guidance, sulfuric acid spills should be neutralized using a weak base such as sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) or soda ash. Avoid using strong bases like sodium hydroxide, as the resulting exothermic reaction can generate intense heat and dangerous splatter. Always apply the neutralizing agent from the perimeter of the spill inward to contain the acid.
What is the boiling point of 96% sulfuric acid?
Concentrated 96% sulfuric acid (ACS Reagent Grade) has a boiling point of approximately 337°C (639°F). This high boiling point makes it useful in laboratory processes requiring high-temperature reactions where other solvents would evaporate. However, caution must be exercised as the acid becomes significantly more reactive and hazardous as it approaches these temperatures.
Is sulfuric acid regulated as a hazardous waste by the EPA?
Yes, spent or discarded sulfuric acid is typically classified as a hazardous waste under EPA RCRA (Resource Conservation and Recovery Act) regulations, specifically carrying the D002 waste code for corrosivity. Any aqueous solution with a pH less than or equal to 2.0 must be managed, transported, and disposed of according to strict EPA guidelines. Facilities must maintain proper manifests and disposal records to ensure compliance with federal law.
What are the OSHA PEL limits for sulfuric acid mist?
OSHA 29 CFR 1910.1000 Table Z-1 establishes a Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) for sulfuric acid mist at 1 mg/m³ as an 8-hour Time Weighted Average (TWA). Exposure to concentrations above this limit can cause severe respiratory irritation and pulmonary edema. Facilities must ensure adequate local exhaust ventilation and utilize NIOSH-approved respirators if engineering controls cannot maintain levels below the PEL.
Can 93% sulfuric acid be used to clean concrete?
Sulfuric acid at 93% Technical Grade is an extremely aggressive cleaner and should only be used on concrete for heavy-duty stain removal or etching by professionals. It must be significantly diluted before application to prevent dissolving the cementitious binder too deeply. Always add acid to water (never water to acid) to prevent a violent steam explosion and ensure the surface is neutralized with an alkaline solution after treatment.
What is the proper way to store sulfuric acid in hot environments?
Sulfuric acid should be stored in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area, protected from direct sunlight which can cause pressure build-up in sealed containers. In high-temperature regions like Texas, containers should be kept in secondary containment made of acid-resistant materials like HDPE. According to NFPA 704, sulfuric acid is rated as a 3 for health, 0 for flammability, and 2 for reactivity, with a 'W' (Water Reactive) designation in high concentrations.
What is the difference between Technical Grade and ACS Grade sulfuric acid?
The primary difference lies in the impurity profile and documentation; 96% ACS Reagent Grade meets or exceeds purity standards set by the American Chemical Society, making it suitable for high-precision laboratory analysis. 93% Technical Grade is intended for industrial applications where minor metallic impurities do not interfere with the process, such as metal pickling or pH adjustment. Alliance Chemical provides a Certificate of Analysis (COA) for both grades to verify specific purity levels.
How do you safely dilute concentrated sulfuric acid?
The golden rule of acid safety is to always add the concentrated sulfuric acid to the water, never the reverse. Adding water to concentrated H₂SO₄ triggers a violent exothermic reaction where the water can flash to steam instantly, splashing concentrated acid onto the operator. Use a slow, controlled pour while stirring in a heat-resistant vessel to dissipate the heat generated by the enthalpy of solution.
Guides & Resources
How to Neutralize a Sulfuric Acid Spill: Complete Industrial Response Guide
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Sulfuric Acid Anodizing (Type II) Explained
Read article →
Battery Acid: What It Is & How to Use It
Read article →
How to Remove Concrete Stains with Sulfuric Acid 93%: A Pro-Grade Cleaning Guide
Read article →Industries Using Sulfuric
See how sulfuric products are used across different industries.
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