[Chemical Knowledge]：The nature, use, upstream and downstream raw materials, storage methods of inorganic acids are

Inorganic acid properties

Inorganic acids, usually composed of inorganic compounds, are an important class of chemical raw materials. They are strongly acidic and can be completely dissociated to produce a large number of hydrogen ions. Common inorganic acids include sulfuric acid, hydrochloric acid, nitric acid, and phosphoric acid. Inorganic acids are generally highly corrosive and oxidizing and can react with metals, alkalis and carbonates. These properties make inorganic acids play an important role in chemical reactions and also require special handling and storage measures to ensure safety.

Inorganic Acid Uses

Inorganic acids are widely used in various industries. Sulfuric acid is known as the "mother of chemical industry" and is widely used in chemical fertilizer production, petroleum refining and metal processing. Hydrochloric acid is commonly used in steel pickling, food processing and pharmaceutical industries. Nitric acid is mainly used in the production of fertilizers, explosives and dyes. Phosphoric acid is used in fertilizers, food additives and water treatment. Inorganic acids are also used in chemical reagents in the laboratory, as catalysts or solvents. Their diverse uses stem from their strong acidity and reactivity.

Inorganic acid upstream and downstream raw materials

The production of inorganic acids requires specific raw materials and processes. Taking sulfuric acid as an example, its production mainly generates sulfur dioxide through sulfur combustion, and then converts it into sulfur trioxide through contact method, and finally dissolves in water to obtain sulfuric acid. Hydrochloric acid is usually prepared by dissolving hydrogen chloride gas in water. Hydrogen chloride can be prepared by the reaction of hydrogen gas and chlorine gas. In the production of nitric acid, ammonia is usually used as raw material, and nitric acid is generated by Ostwald oxidation. These production processes require a stable supply of raw materials, and the production equipment must have high corrosion resistance to cope with the erosion of acidic media.

Inorganic acid storage method

Due to the strong corrosion of inorganic acids, their storage methods require special attention. Generally speaking, inorganic acids should be stored in containers made of acid-resistant materials, such as glass, ceramics or special plastics. The storage environment should be kept well ventilated to avoid acid mist accumulation. Inorganic acids should be kept away from combustibles and reducing substances to prevent violent chemical reactions. When storing sulfuric acid, special care should be taken to prevent it from coming into contact with water, because sulfuric acid will release a lot of heat when mixed with water, which may cause danger. Hydrochloric acid and nitric acid should be avoided from direct sunlight to prevent decomposition or concentration changes.

Inorganic Acid Safe Handling

Strict safety measures must be taken when handling mineral acids. Operators should wear protective equipment such as acid gloves, goggles and protective clothing to avoid injury from contact with acid. The operating environment should be equipped with emergency flushing equipment to deal with accidental contact quickly. In the event of splashing or leakage of inorganic acids, they should be treated immediately with a neutralizing agent (such as sodium carbonate or lime) and rinsed with plenty of water. The working environment where acid mist escapes should be equipped with an effective ventilation system to reduce the concentration of acid mist and protect the health of workers.

Inorganic Acid Environmental Impact

The impact of inorganic acids on the environment cannot be ignored. In the process of production, transportation and use, such as poor management, may lead to acid wastewater, exhaust emissions, pollution of soil and water. Especially sulfuric acid and nitric acid, the emission of acid gases (such as sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides) can cause acid rain, causing serious damage to ecosystems and buildings. Therefore, the use of inorganic acids must strictly abide by environmental protection regulations, and adopt advanced treatment technology to reduce pollution emissions, such as the installation of exhaust gas absorption devices and wastewater treatment systems to protect the environment.

Inorganic Acid Market Prospects

With the continuous advancement of industrialization, the market demand for inorganic acids continues to grow. The development of chemical fertilizer, petrochemical, metal processing and other industries has driven the demand for inorganic acids such as sulfuric acid, hydrochloric acid and nitric acid. The rise of environmental protection and green chemical industry has promoted the improvement of inorganic acid production process and the development of new uses. For example, phosphoric acid is more and more widely used in the food industry, and the demand for hydrochloric acid in the pharmaceutical industry is also increasing. It is expected that the inorganic acid market will maintain steady growth in the future, but it will also face environmental pressure and safety management challenges.

Summary

Inorganic acids have an irreplaceable position in modern industry because of their unique chemical properties. Their wide range of uses, complex production processes, stringent storage and handling requirements, and potential impact on the environment all dictate the importance of inorganic acids in the chemical industry. With the advancement of science and technology and the enhancement of environmental protection awareness, the production and application of inorganic acids will continue to be optimized to promote the development of the chemical industry in a safer and greener direction.