In general, acid tanks are tanks for hazardous goods. Acid can have many different properties which can also be harmful to the environment. To prevent the harmful substance from entering the groundwater or into the environment in general, several points need to be observed when setting up an acid tank.

What actually is a hazardous good?

At first glance, the term seems self-explanatory. But an accurate definition is needed to be able to distinguish it. The Hazardous Goods Transport Act describes what is meant by hazardous goods.

„Hazardous goods are, within the meaning of this Act, substances and items which, due to their nature, properties or condition in connection with the transport, may pose threats to public safety or order, particularly the general public, to important goods, to human life and health and to animals and property.“

To distinguish between different hazardous goods, there are different classes which describe how dangerous each good is. There are nine hazardous goods groups in total. Acid, depending on the type, can be counted as a corrosive substance under Class 8.

Acid as a corrosive substance

There are many different types of acid. There’s sulphuric acid, hydrochloric acid and acetic acid, just to name a few. But not every acid is as harmful to the environment as the next. For example, lactic acid is found in milk and is not harmful to the environment, people or animals.

Acids also have their place in private homes. Citric acid, tartaric acid and carbonic acid are substances that are contained in foodstuffs. However, these acids can cause negative reactions in the human body if consumed in large amounts.

Hydrochloric acid is different. Hydrochloric acid is highly corrosive and direct contact can cause serious injury. This acid has a strong corrosive effect and can even eat through many materials.

Storing and transporting acid

To prevent acids from eating through the tank wall, acid tanks must be specially equipped and coated. When dealing with an acid that can be classified as a hazardous good, the tanks are subject to certain guidelines for storing and transporting the substance.