SULFURIC ACID DECOMPOSITION FURNACE
The sulfuric acid decomposition (or spent acid) recovery process is designed to regenerate or recover sulfuric acid from a variety of spent acids containing a varying degree of contaminants. The process involves the decomposition of H2SO4 into SO2 and H2O inside a refractory-lined furnace operating at 1800-2200°F (1000-1200°C). The decomposition reaction is an endothermic reaction, so heat must be provided for the reaction to occur. Hydrocarbons that are present in the spent acid provide part of the fuel to maintain furnace operating temperature, with the remaining portion supplied by burning auxiliary fuel such as natural gas, No. 2 fuel oil, etc.