Oleum (Fuming Sulfuric Acid)

Description

1. Product Overview

Oleum (Fuming Sulfuric Acid) is a highly concentrated solution of sulfur trioxide (SO₃) dissolved in sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄), engineered for applications requiring exceptional sulfonation strength and controlled sulfur trioxide delivery. It is primarily used in the production of detergents, dyes, explosives, pharmaceuticals, petrochemicals, and advanced chemical intermediates.

As a critical reagent in large-scale industrial synthesis, Oleum enables high-efficiency sulfonation and sulfation reactions while minimizing water content and maximizing reaction control. Its strategic importance lies in its role as a backbone chemical for high-value manufacturing sectors, where precision, concentration, and reliability directly impact operational performance and profitability.

2. Key Specifications & Technical Characteristics

• Chemical Composition:
  • Sulfuric Acid (H₂SO₄) with dissolved Sulfur Trioxide (SO₃)
  • Typical SO₃ Content: 20%, 30%, 40%, or customized grades
  • Balance: Concentrated H₂SO₄
• Purity Level / Grade:
  • Industrial Grade
  • High-Purity Chemical Processing Grade (upon request)
• Physical Characteristics:
  • Appearance: Colorless to slightly brown, oily liquid
  • Fuming in air due to free SO₃
  • Density: Approx. 1.90–2.05 g/cm³ (depending on SO₃ concentration)
  • Highly hygroscopic and strongly corrosive
  • Reacts exothermically with water
• Packaging Options:
  • Bulk tank trucks (corrosion-resistant lined)
  • 20–25 MT ISO tank containers
  • Specialized acid-resistant storage tanks
  • Custom bulk delivery arrangements
• Shelf Life:
  • Stable under dry, sealed, corrosion-resistant storage conditions
  • Shelf life: 12 months when stored properly

3. Core Industrial Applications

Primary Industries

• Detergent and surfactant manufacturing
• Petrochemical and refining industries
• Explosives and nitration processes
• Dye and pigment production
• Pharmaceutical and specialty chemical manufacturing

Operational Use Cases

• Sulfonation of organic compounds for surfactant production
• Manufacture of linear alkylbenzene sulfonic acid (LABSA)
• Production of explosives such as TNT
• Synthesis of dyes and intermediates
• Controlled SO₃ source in chemical reactions requiring low moisture conditions

Performance & Cost Advantages

Oleum provides superior sulfonation efficiency compared to standard sulfuric acid by delivering concentrated SO₃ directly into the reaction system. This enhances reaction yields, reduces processing time, and improves product consistency.

Its high concentration reduces transportation and storage volume per unit of active component, optimizing logistics costs for large-scale industrial operations. In moisture-sensitive processes, Oleum ensures better reaction control and higher purity outputs, delivering measurable operational and financial advantages.

4. Competitive Advantages

• Quality Consistency: Strict control of SO₃ concentration and impurity levels ensures predictable reaction performance.
• Supply Reliability: Produced through integrated sulfuric acid plants with continuous manufacturing capability.
• Logistics Capability: Bulk ISO tanks and specialized acid transport systems for safe international shipment.
• Price Competitiveness: Economical high-strength sulfonating agent compared to alternative SO₃ delivery methods.
• Sustainability: Manufactured through optimized sulfur recovery processes, supporting circular sulfur utilization.
• Technical Documentation: Comprehensive COA, SDS, and handling guidelines available.
• Technical Support: Process optimization guidance and compatibility consultation for industrial buyers.

Oleum represents a strategic sourcing decision for enterprises requiring high-performance sulfonation capacity, supply security, and cost-efficient large-scale chemical processing.

5. Commercial & Supply Information

• Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ): BULK 20 MT
• Loading Capacity:
  • 20ft ISO Tank Container: Approx. 20–25 MT (depending on grade and transport regulations)
  • Bulk Tanker Shipment: As per contractual and regulatory compliance requirements