Vanadium pentoxide catalyst is the major ingredient for producing sulfuric acid in chemical plants. Hence, it is called a sulfuric acid catalyst. V2O5 is useful for converting sulfur dioxide to sulfur trioxide. SO2 transforms to SO3 in a dry atmosphere, while in humidity, it changes to sulfuric acid.
Introduction to vanadium pentoxide
Vanadium was discovered in Mexico. The metal is available in abundant forms on earth, majorly in countries like South Africa, Russia, China, and Australia. It is also found in around 65 minerals, such as patronite, carnotite, and vanadinite. Because of its resistance and low density to pressure and high temperature, Vanadium is also essential in the aerospace sector.
Role of Vanadium in the production of sulfuric acid
During production, when reactors operate in the sulfuric acid plant, SO2 passes through the components; this is where the need for vanadium pentoxide catalyst arises. The production takes place in two phases:
- In the first stage, a low-level vanadium catalyst transforms the gas into acid.
- In the next stage, the catalyst is used to convert SO2 to SO3, eventually producing sulfuric acid.
Uses
Most of the Vanadium is used as a steel additive. Vanadium-steel alloys are robust and helpful in making crankshafts, tools, axles, and piston rods. Vanadium alloys work in nuclear reactors because of the low neutron-absorbing specifications of Vanadium. It is also used as a pigment for glass and ceramic and in producing superconducting magnets.
Uses of metallic Vanadium and other alloys involve electric materials, heat-resistant products, super alloys, and encapsulant items.
Application of vanadium pentoxide in different sectors
Industries
- Used as a catalyst in the chemical sector
- Used in the steel manufacturing procedure
- Used in power plants
- Used to reduce environmental pollution
- Used in the production of sulfuric acid
Therapeutic
- Boost athletic performance
- Prevention of cancer
- Diabetes treatment
Non-metallurgical purpose
- Used in photography
- Production of steel armors
- Dye leather
- Electronic parts
- Production of ceramic
Why should you consider vanadium pentoxide in place of platinum asbestos?
Asbestos is costlier and can get poisonous after reacting with impurities like arsenic. Though vanadium pentoxide is less effective, it is affordable and doesn’t get infected or poisonous by any impurities. This is the reason most companies choose vanadium pentoxide catalyst over platinum asbestos.
How is vanadium pentoxide used?
The vanadium pentoxide is available in varied forms ranging from the color yellow to red crystalline powder. It has a higher concentration than water and is adopted as a catalyst in different industrial procedures. It works as a catalyst in the contact procedure for oxidation of SO2 to SO3 with oxygen at 440 degree Celsius. Also, it helps in ethanol oxidation and the production of polyamides.
Is Vanadium toxic?
At normal concentrations, it is completely non-poisonous. However, it may be dangerous when exposed to a high concentration of vanadium oxide. It can enter your body through the lungs and cause respiratory functions. Hence, proper precautionary steps should be taken when using it.
Apart from this, Vanadium is not toxic at all and can be used for any process easily.