Why in news?
In early March 2026, a major oleum gas leak occurred at Bhageria Industries Limited (formerly Zealot Chemicals) in the Tarapur MIDC area of Boisar, Palghar district, Maharashtra, India.
About Oleum gas
Oleum gas, also known as fuming sulfuric acid, is a highly corrosive chemical made of sulfur trioxide (SO₃) dissolved in concentrated sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄). It is dangerous because it releases dense, toxic white fumes when exposed to moist air, and recent leaks in Maharashtra’s Palghar district forced the evacuation of over 2,600 people.
About Oleum Gas
- Chemical composition: H₂SO₄·xSO₃ (sulfuric acid with dissolved sulfur trioxide).
- Common name: Fuming sulfuric acid.
- Appearance: Colorless liquid that emits dense white fumes in moist air.
- Variants: When x = 1, it forms disulfuric acid (H₂S₂O₇), also called pyrosulfuric acid.
Hazards & Health Risks
- Corrosive nature: Causes severe burns on skin contact.
- Respiratory danger: Inhalation of fumes can irritate lungs, throat, and eyes.
- Environmental impact: Dense fumes reduce visibility and contaminate air.
- Recent incident: In Palghar (March 2026), 2,600 people including 1,600 students were evacuated; some reported minor eye irritation.
Industrial Uses
- Sulfuric acid production: Oleum is an intermediate in the Contact Process.
- Chemical manufacturing: Used in explosives, dyes, and pharmaceuticals.
- Dehydrating agent: Removes water in specialized reactions.
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