PROJECT PROPOSAL

TOPIC: SIMULATION AND OPTIMIZATION OF SULPHURIC ACID PRODUCTION BY CONTACT

PROCESSS

INTRODUCTION:

Contact Process has been the best of producing hydrogen tetraoxosulphate VI acid (H2SO4)
otherwise known as sulphuric acid. Sulphuric acid is of great of importance to many industries
as a raw material. There are many steps involved in the production of (H2SO4) via contact
process. These include the following;

 Preparation of SO2.
 Purification of SO2.
 Oxidation of SO2
 Absorption of SO3
 Dilution of oleum.

HISTORICAL BACKGROUND:

Sulphuric acid is majorly used in the production of fertilizers and other chemicals like HCL,
nitric acid, synthetic detergent. The production of sulphuric acid via contact process
involves;

a) Making of the sulphur dioxide: This can be either be made by burning sulphur in
excess of air. S(S) + O2(g) ------- SO2. Or by heating sulphur ore like pyrite in an excess
of air. 4FeS2+11O2-------- 2Fe2O3+8SO2.
b) Converting the sulphur dioxide into sulphur trioxide. 2SO2+O2-------2SO3.
c) Converting the sulphur trioxide into sulphuric acid. H2SO4+SO3---------H2S2O7.
d) Reacting H2S2O7--------2H2SO4.

However optimizing the production process is of great importance. Of course the aim of
every production is to increase yield and minimize cost. Optimizing this process is done to
achieve the following.

i. Reduction in the cost of production.

ii. Increase in yield or productivity.
iii. Affordable market price.
iv. Increase the quality of product.
Problem Statement:

Contact process though is the best way of producing tetraoxo sulphate vi acid (H2SO4) has
some problems that could hinder the production. These problems include:

 Temperature: Here we consider the equilibrium and rate of reaction.

 Pressure: We put in mind economic and equilibrium factor.
 Catalysis: Here equilibrium and rate of reaction.

Aims and Objectives:

The objective of this research work is to develop a model that would aid in the production of
sulphuric acid. Not just the production alone but also addressing the problems associated with
the production.

This research work also aims at optimizing the developed model. Optimization seek out ways to
increase yield and reduce cost of production and effective use of raw material.

Scope Of Study:

Justification For Study:

This research work tends to help find solution increase in yield of the production of sulphuric
acid. It tends also to help make effective use of raw materials and the catalyst as well.

Limitation of Research: