The Vital Role of Sulfuric Acid in Phosphorus Chemistry

A Catalyst for Growth and Innovation

In the field of modern industrial chemistry, few compounds hold as much significance as sulfuric acid. Thanks to its remarkable versatility and indispensable role in various industrial processes, sulfuric acid plays a pivotal role in shaping the industry’s present and future.

Phosphoric acid production relies significantly on the production of sulfuric acid: 50% of the sulfuric acid worldwide production is used in fertilizers applications, illustrating its indispensable role in agriculture and food security.

An efficient sustainable process:

The production of sulfuric acid results in the generation of substantial heat energy. This energy source is integrated into the phosphoric acid concentration process. By converting this excess heat into valuable steam or electricity, sulfuric acid contributes to the efficiency and sustainability of phosphorus chemistry.

Prayon: Case Study

At Prayon, we generate our own steam from the sulfuric acid production plant. This energy source can be utilized to generate electricity or used as it is to feed the phosphoric acid plant (conversion and evaporation stages). A fine example of circular economy.

The interaction between sulfuric acid and phosphoric acid plants is not limited to the energy. The reaction between the sulfuric acid and the rock phosphate produces phosphogypsum. In some cases, it is used as a fertilizer or, as in the case of Prayon, as a building material, through the unique Prayon Process. Prayon provides this co-product to Knauf Engis, which serves as the main ingredient in the production of gypsum plaster, a widely used building material for interior walls and ceilings.

Sulfuric acid is also employed in phosphate rock beneficiation processes designed by Prayon Technologies, the licensing division of Prayon (such as Prayon ) where the level of acidity brought by the sulfuric acid helps separate impurities, improving the quality of the raw material.

The synergies between sulfuric acid and the phosphate market highlights its crucial role in influencing the current and future trajectory of the fertilizer industry, exemplifying innovation and sustainability at every step.