Oleum (Fuming Sulfuric Acid)


Chemical Formula: H₂S₂O₇
Oleum, also known as Fuming Sulfuric Acid, is a solution of sulphur trioxide (SO₃) dissolved in concentrated sulfuric acid. It is a highly reactive and powerful industrial chemical widely used in chemical synthesis, sulfonation processes, and the production of various specialty chemicals. Oleum is valued for its strong dehydrating properties, high sulphur trioxide content, and effectiveness in reactions requiring concentrated sulfuric acid and free SO₃. Available in different grades and SO₃ concentrations, it is an essential raw material for large-scale industrial operations. The product is extensively utilized across industries including chemical manufacturing, detergents, dyes and pigments, pharmaceuticals, explosives, petroleum refining, and fertilizer production.
Application

Chemical Manufacturing
Widely used in the production of sulfuric acid, specialty chemicals, intermediates, and industrial reagents.

Detergents & Surfactants
Used in sulfonation processes for manufacturing detergents, surfactants, and cleaning agents.

Dyes & Pigments
Serves as a key reagent in the synthesis of dyes, pigments, and color intermediates.

Pharmaceutical Industry
Utilized in the manufacture of pharmaceutical intermediates and active chemical compounds.

Explosives Manufacturing
Used in nitration and chemical processing applications for the production of industrial explosives.

Petroleum Refining
Applied in refining processes and chemical treatment operations within the petroleum industry.

Fertilizer Production
Used as an intermediate in sulfuric acid production and other fertilizer manufacturing processes.
Chemical Properties
- Molecular Weight: Varies based on free SO₃ content
- Physical State: Colourless to brownish oily liquid
- Solubility: Reacts vigorously with water, generating heat
- Reactivity: Strong dehydrating, sulfonating, and oxidizing agent
Packing details:
- 300 Kg Drums
- 350 Kg Drums
- Tanker Loads
- 1650 Kg IBC (subject to grade and customer requirements)
Technical Specification
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Clear to slightly brown fuming liquid |
| Free SO₃ Content | Available in 20%, 23%, 25%, 30%, and 65% grades (as required) |
| Sulfuric Acid Content | Balance H₂SO₄ |
| Density | As per SO₃ concentration |
| pH | Strongly acidic |
| Odor | Sharp, pungent sulphurous odour |


