Effects of nitrogen oxides,sulfur dioxide,and ferric ions on the corrosion of mild steel in concentrated sulfuric acid

Effects of nitrate ions, nitrous acid, sulfur dioxide, and ferric ions on the corrosion of mild steel in unstirred, concentrated sulfuric acid were determined in laboratory tests. Nitrate and nitrous acid at levels up to 1000 ppm accelerate corrosion. At concentrations greater than 1000 ppm nitrate passivates the steel. Sulfur dioxide and ferric ions have no detectable influence on the corrosion. Reaction mechanisms are presented to explain the observed effects. The impact of nitrogen oxides on the storage and handling of sulfide smelter by-product acid is discussed.