Sulfuric Acid 1000ℓ Leak at Hyosung Advanced Materials Ulsan Plant... No Casualties Reported

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Jung-yoon] At around 6:30 a.m. on the 16th, an accident occurred at Hyosung Advanced Materials Ulsan Plant in Maeam-dong, Nam-gu, Ulsan, where sulfuric acid leaked.

According to the Ulsan Fire Department, approximately 1,000 liters of sulfuric acid stored in a tank leaked. Initially, the fire authorities estimated the leak volume to be about 3,000 liters, but after further investigation, it was confirmed to be as stated.

The fire authorities also stated that there have been no casualties so far. Sulfuric acid can cause severe damage to human skin, eyes, and lungs, and inhalation can be fatal.

The sulfuric acid leaked inside a containment facility shaped like a dike surrounding the tank. The fire authorities used a vacuum suction vehicle to recover the leaked sulfuric acid, and the remaining sulfuric acid in the tank was transferred elsewhere. The recovery operation was completed around 4 p.m., about 9 hours and 20 minutes after the leak.

Hyosung Advanced Materials Ulsan Plant produces industrial yarns, cutting-edge materials, and tire reinforcement materials. The fire authorities believe the sulfuric acid leaked due to damage to the lower level gauge of the tank and are investigating the detailed cause of the accident and the extent of property damage.