Sulfuric Acid
Sulfuric acid is used in the oil refinery process and produces a foul smell, similar to that of rotting eggs. In 2001 alone, 165 million metric tons of sulfuric acid was produced by the ore processing, explosives and oil refining industries throughout the world, with over 1 million pounds produced here in the U.S.
In general, sulfuric acid is most dangerous when it comes into contact with human skin, as it can cause serious burns. However, sulfuric acid can cause damage to the interior of the human body if it is inhaled, as it is a corrosive agent. In fact, sulfuric acid is so harmful that it can virtually corrode the throat, teeth, mucous membranes and respiratory tract. Exposure to sulfuric acid may also lead to a dangerous B12 deficiency and lead to damage of the spinal cord and nervous system.
The output of sulfuric acid within the U.S. is monitored by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Florida, Ohio, and Indiana are the three states containing the most sulfuric acid pollution, and several refineries are included in the top 100 producers of sulfuric acid in the U,S, including the Deer Park Refinery in Texas.
Last modified: December 09, 2009.
