Sulfur and its compounds are very important in industry.
From the Wikipedia article:
“Approximately 85% (1989) is converted to sulfuric acid (H2SO4)…with 32.5 million tonnes in 2010, the United States produces more sulfuric acid every year than any other inorganic industrial chemical.”
What is interesting is that the demand may increase because of its use in making fertilizers.
“The botanical requirement for sulfur equals or exceeds the requirement for phosphorus. It is an essential nutrient for plant growth, root nodule formation of legumes, and immunity and defense systems. Sulfur deficiency has become widespread in many countries in Europe. Because atmospheric inputs of sulfur continue to decrease, the deficit in the sulfur input/output is likely to increase unless sulfur fertilizers are used.”
Dammit, Alberta! You win again!
