Sulfuric acid is a very corrosive, clear, colorless, and oily liquid. It is also commonly known as battery acid, suphine acid, and hydrogen sulfate. It is used in the manufacture of explosives, fertilizers, glue, and other acids; in the purification of petroleum; in the pickling of metal; and in lead-acid batteries which are used in most vehicles. 

How You Are Exposed

Much of the sulfuric acid in the air is formed from sulfur dioxide released when coal, oil, and gas are burned. If you live near or work in a facility where coal, oil, or gas are burned, you could be exposed to higher than normal levels of sulfuric acid in the air. Working in the chemical or metal plating industry; producing detergents, soaps, fertilizers, or lead-acid batteries; or working in printing and publishing or photography shops may also increase the risk of exposure. 

It is also possible to be exposed to sulfuric acid when you touch the material that forms on the outside of your car battery or come into contact with toilet bowl cleaners mixed with water.

How Can Sulfuric Acid Affect Your Health?

Sulfuric acid will burn your skin and eyes if touched, and it will burn your mouth, throat, and stomach if swallowed. Drinking it can also result in death in some cases. Inhaling sulfuric acid can result in tooth erosion and respiratory tract irritation.