Superacid

Superacid

A superacid is an acid with an acidity greater than that of 100% sulfuric acid, which has a Hammett acidity function (H0) of -12. According to the modern definition, a superacid is an acid with an acidity greater than that of 100% sulfuric acid. A lower H0 value indicates a higher acidity.

History

The concept of superacidity was first introduced by George A. Olah in 1970. Olah's research in superacids and their applications in hydrocarbon cracking and isomerization led to his receipt of the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1994.

Types of Superacids

There are two well-known superacids, namely fluoroantimonic acid (HSbF6) and magic acid (FSO3H·SbF5). Fluoroantimonic acid is the strongest superacid based on the Hammett acidity function. On the other hand, magic acid is a superacid formed by mixing fluorosulfuric acid (HSO3F) and antimony pentafluoride (SbF5).

Applications

Superacids are used in the petrochemical industry for the alkylation of hydrocarbons and the isomerization of alkanes. They also have potential applications in green chemistry, particularly in the synthesis of biofuels.

Safety

Due to their extreme acidity, superacids are highly corrosive and can cause severe burns. They should be handled with extreme care, using appropriate personal protective equipment.

See also

• Acid
• Base
• pH
• Acid dissociation constant
• Lewis acids and bases