In recent years, global population growth has led to an increased demand for food, which in turn has increased the need for fertilizers. Among the essential ingredients used in fertilizers is sulfuric acid. Despite its reputation as a hazardous chemical, sulfuric acid is actually an important ingredient that helps plants grow. It is indispensable for ensuring a stable food supply.
Mitsubishi Materials supports the stable supply of fertilizers by producing and supplying sulfuric acid. It all began in the 1930s when we started producing sulfuric acid as a byproduct while detoxifying emissions from copper smelting.
Currently, one of the primary methods of producing sulfuric acid is sulfur roasting, which uses petroleum-derived sulfur. However, due to the growing emphasis on decarbonization, there is a possibility that the production and supply of sulfuric acid through sulfur roasting may decrease in the future. To make up for this shortage, we anticipate a surge in demand for sulfuric acid derived from copper smelting. Moving forward, Mitsubishi Materials will continue contributing to the development of agriculture through the production and supply of sulfuric acid that can meet market needs.

Generally, sulfuric acid with a concentration of 90– 100% is referred to as concentrated sulfuric acid. Mitsubishi Materials produces concentrated sulfuric acid with a concentration of 98% by recovering SO2 gas generated from copper smelting plants. It is used in various applications, including fertilizers, inorganic chemicals, and textiles.