Oleum price index

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Oleum price chart

This post is a summary of the global Oleum price developments. The price developments of global Oleum are expressed in US$ prices converted FX rates applicable at the time when the price was valid. Oleum price index developments are calculated from multiple separate sources of data to ensure statistical accuracy.

The outlook for global Oleum prices, on the second tab, is generated from different inputs including:

• Very recent price developments of immediate cost drivers of Oleum
• Market futures for both cost drives and feedstocks of global Oleum
• Adjustment of current supply/demand imbalances in the supply of Oleum
• Longer term trends in likely demand conditions

Further information on the Oleum price chart

What is Oleum

Oleum, also known as fuming sulfuric acid or sulfuric acid anhydride, is a solution of various compositions of sulfur trioxide in sulfuric acid or another sulfuric acid-rich mixture. It’s a highly corrosive and reactive substance, commonly used in industrial processes such as the production of detergents, explosives, and pharmaceuticals. Its high reactivity makes it a valuable reagent in chemical synthesis, but also requires careful handling due to its hazardous nature.

What is Oleum used for

Oleum has several industrial applications due to its highly reactive nature and acidic properties. Some common uses include:

Sulfonation

Oleum is used in the sulfonation process to introduce sulfonic acid groups into organic compounds. This is crucial in the production of detergents, surfactants, and dyes.

Nitration

It’s employed in the nitration of organic compounds, a key step in the synthesis of explosives like nitroglycerin and nitrocellulose.

Petroleum refining

Oleum is utilized in the alkylation process to convert low-value hydrocarbons into high-octane gasoline components.
Chemical synthesis: It serves as a powerful dehydrating agent and catalyst in various chemical reactions, aiding in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and specialty chemicals.

Analytical chemistry

In laboratory settings, oleum is used as a reagent for certain analytical techniques, particularly in sulfonation reactions for qualitative and quantitative analysis.

Textile industry

It’s employed in dyeing processes to modify the properties of textile fibers, enhancing color fastness and improving dye penetration.

Overall, oleum plays a crucial role in numerous industrial processes, although its highly corrosive nature requires careful handling and safety precautions.

What types of Oleum are there

Oleum, or fuming sulfuric acid, is a concentrated form of sulfuric acid containing varying amounts of dissolved sulfur trioxide. The concentration of sulfur trioxide determines the specific type or grade of oleum. The two primary types of oleum are:

20% Oleum (Oleum 20%): This type of oleum contains approximately 20% sulfur trioxide dissolved in sulfuric acid. It is milder in its reactivity compared to higher concentrations of oleum.

65% Oleum (Oleum 65%): This type of oleum contains approximately 65% sulfur trioxide dissolved in sulfuric acid. Oleum with this concentration is highly reactive and is used in more specialized and demanding industrial applications.

These two types of oleum are the most common, but intermediate concentrations are also possible, depending on specific industrial requirements. The concentration of sulfur trioxide in oleum can vary depending on the manufacturing process and the intended application.

Different concentrations of oleum are used in various industries and applications, such as sulfonation processes in the production of detergents, surfactants, and dyes, as well as in chemical synthesis and petrochemical refining. The choice of oleum concentration depends on factors such as the desired reaction kinetics, product purity, and safety considerations.

How is Oleum produced

Oleum, or fuming sulfuric acid, is typically produced through a process known as the “contact process,” which involves the catalytic oxidation of sulfur dioxide to sulfur trioxide, followed by its dissolution in sulfuric acid. Here’s a simplified overview of the production process:

Production of Sulfur Dioxide (SO2)

Sulfur dioxide is often obtained by burning sulfur or roasting sulfide ores, such as iron pyrites (FeS2), in the presence of air:

Conversion of Sulfur Dioxide to Sulfur Trioxide (SO3)

The oxidation of sulfur dioxide to sulfur trioxide is catalyzed by a vanadium(V) oxide (V2O5) catalyst at elevated temperatures (around 450-500°C) and pressures (1-2 atm): This reaction is exothermic, and the sulfur trioxide formed is usually in the form of a gas.

Absorption of Sulfur Trioxide in Sulfuric Acid

The gaseous sulfur trioxide is then dissolved in concentrated sulfuric acid to produce oleum. The resulting product is a mixture of sulfuric acid and sulfuric acid anhydride commonly known as oleum.

Handling and Storage

Oleum is typically handled and stored with care due to its highly corrosive and reactive nature. It is often diluted to a desired concentration for specific applications. The production of oleum requires careful control of temperature, pressure, and catalyst concentration to maximize the yield and purity of the product while ensuring safety and efficiency.

What drives the cost of Oleum

Several factors influence the cost of oleum, or fuming sulfuric acid, in the market. These factors can vary depending on regional dynamics, market demand, and supply chain considerations. Here are some key drivers of oleum costs:

Raw Material Prices

The cost of raw materials, primarily sulfur and sulfuric acid, significantly affects the production cost of oleum. Fluctuations in the prices of these materials can impact the overall cost of producing oleum.

Energy Costs

The energy-intensive nature of the oleum production process makes energy prices a significant factor in determining its cost. High energy costs can increase production expenses and, consequently, the price of oleum.

Production Scale and Efficiency

Economies of scale play a role in the cost of oleum production. Larger production facilities may benefit from lower production costs per unit due to higher efficiency and volume discounts on raw materials and energy.

Labor Costs

Labor costs, including wages, benefits, and workforce productivity, contribute to the overall cost structure of oleum production. Labor-intensive processes or regions with higher labor costs may have higher oleum production costs.

Regulatory Compliance and Safety Measures

Compliance with environmental regulations and safety standards can add to production costs through investments in pollution control equipment, safety protocols, and regulatory compliance measures.

Market Demand and Supply Dynamics

Supply and demand dynamics in the sulfuric acid market can influence the pricing of oleum. Increased demand or limited supply can lead to higher prices, while oversupply may result in downward pressure on prices.

Transportation and Logistics Costs

The cost of transporting raw materials to the production facility and distributing oleum to customers affects its overall cost. Transportation costs depend on factors such as distance, mode of transportation, and infrastructure.

Currency Exchange Rates and Economic Conditions

Fluctuations in currency exchange rates and overall economic conditions can impact the cost of imported raw materials, equipment, and other inputs, influencing the final price of oleum.

Technology and Innovation

Advances in technology and process improvements can lead to cost reductions in oleum production over time. Investments in research and development aimed at enhancing efficiency and reducing production costs can affect pricing.

Market Competition

The competitive landscape within the oleum market, including the presence of alternative products or substitutes, can influence pricing dynamics. Intense competition may lead to price competition among suppliers.

Overall, the cost of oleum is influenced by a combination of these factors, and understanding these drivers is essential for producers, buyers, and stakeholders in the sulfuric acid industry.

Which countries produce the most Oleum

Oleum, or fuming sulfuric acid, is produced in various countries globally, particularly those with significant sulfuric acid production capacities and industrial bases. While specific data on oleum production may not be readily available, we can look at sulfuric acid production as an indicator, given that oleum is a derivative of sulfuric acid.

As of my last update, some of the countries known for significant sulfuric acid production, and likely oleum production, include:

China

China is one of the largest producers of sulfuric acid globally, driven by its extensive industrial activity across various sectors such as chemicals, metals, and mining. The country’s large phosphate fertilizer industry also contributes to sulfuric acid production.

United States

The United States has a well-developed chemical industry and is a major producer of sulfuric acid. It’s used extensively in various applications, including fertilizer production, petroleum refining, and chemical manufacturing.

Russia

Russia is another significant producer of sulfuric acid, supported by its vast natural resources and industrial infrastructure. The country’s chemical industry, mining operations, and metallurgical sector contribute to sulfuric acid production.

India

India has a growing chemical industry and is among the top producers of sulfuric acid globally. The country’s agricultural sector, as well as its diverse industrial base, drive demand for sulfuric acid and its derivatives.

Canada

Canada’s mining industry, particularly its production of base metals like copper, zinc, and nickel, contributes to significant sulfuric acid production. The country also has chemical manufacturing facilities that produce sulfuric acid for various industrial applications.

Brazil

Brazil’s agricultural sector, including its large-scale production of sugarcane for ethanol production, drives demand for sulfuric acid for fertilizer manufacturing. The country is a notable producer of sulfuric acid in South America.

European Union

Several countries within the European Union, such as Germany, France, the United Kingdom, and Spain, have significant sulfuric acid production capacities. The chemical industry and manufacturing sectors in these countries contribute to sulfuric acid production.

Japan

Japan’s industrial base, including its chemical, automotive, and electronics industries, supports sulfuric acid production for various applications within the country and for export.

These countries, among others, play significant roles in global sulfuric acid production, and consequently, they likely produce oleum as well to meet industrial demands.