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Leakage of highly corrosive sulfuric acid from a pickup van in Patna city caused panic. Called the ‘king of chemicals’, this acid is used in fertilizers and batteries. Leakage causes serious damage to skin/lungs. To deal with this, it is necessary to wear PPE and neutralize it with sodium bicarbonate, using water is dangerous.
Patna: There was chaos last evening at Ashok Rajpath located in Magsalami police station area of Patna City, when dangerous gas started leaking from a pickup van carrying spices and ration. The leak was caused by a leakage in gallons filled with sulfuric acid illegally loaded on the van. The gas started spreading rapidly in the atmosphere, due to which the people nearby started having difficulty in breathing and became restless. This incident created a stir in the densely populated area. However, the local police and NDRF team showed promptness and normalized the situation in time. But questions are arising in the minds of people that what is sulfuric acid and what is its use?
Let us tell you that Sulfuric Acid (H_2SO_4) is a highly corrosive mineral acid, which is also called the ‘king of chemicals’. It is a colorless, odorless and viscous liquid. This acid is mainly used in fertilizer production (such as superphosphate) and petroleum refining. Additionally, it is used in automobile batteries, detergent manufacturing, and various industrial processes.
How dangerous for health?
Sulfuric acid can cause severe irritation and permanent damage (blindness) if it comes in contact with skin or eyes. Inhaling its vapor or smoke causes serious damage to the lungs and respiratory system, causing difficulty in breathing.
How to deal with leakage?
Sulfuric acid leaks are very dangerous to handle because it produces heat along with the water. In case of leakage, the spot should be evacuated immediately. Do not come in contact without proper PPE such as acid-resistant suit, gloves and respirator.
Instead of washing the leak with water, it should be covered with alkaline substances such as sodium bicarbonate or lime. At the same time, sand or soil can be used to prevent the leakage from spreading.
