I wasn't aware until someone (much more informed than myself) mentioned this change: the strength of sulphuric acid that members of the public can possess (not just buy) without a special licence has recently been reduced to 15%w/w.
So what could have been quite legitimately purchased some months (or years) back, may now be stronger than is permitted to have. Apparently, risking potential imprisonment and fines - see EPP Licence
I know most people that adjust the water's alkalinity use less restricted acids like hydrochloric, or (more commonly) weak AMS/CRS. But thought it worth passing on, lest anyone may have and want to dilute their sulphuric or get a licence.
Sulphuric acid - change to the law
Re: Sulphuric acid - change to the law
I've heard this as well. All to do with acid attacks I assume.
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Re: Sulphuric acid - change to the law
Yes, though why they think Sulphuric is bad but Hydrochloric is OK is anyone's guess.
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Dave
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Re: Sulphuric acid - change to the law
Yes, you're probably right. IIRC sulphuric acid can be used in the making of nitro-glycerine, but the horrible acid attacks are certainly what have raised its profile recently. I have to wonder if people willing to commit such terrible atrocities would actually be fazed by this, or just law abiding users - such as home-brewers with uncooperative tap water, who (unlike the criminals) can't use millions of alternatives. But either way, it has happened whether we approve or not.
The small amount of sulphuric acid I had is now diluted to well below the 15% strength. I don't think I'll be getting any more, especially as any more/future restrictions may be similarly retrospective. But then I'm lucky enough that low-level CRS (or at a push, just hydrochloric) is suitable with my tap water, so that will suffice for now.
What the future holds for acids in general, who knows. Though there is always RO or perhaps certain bottled water to fall back on if necessary. It might even encourage a resurgence of darker beers. If people can recall them and our brewing heritage anyway, in the face of the pale american-style influx!
The small amount of sulphuric acid I had is now diluted to well below the 15% strength. I don't think I'll be getting any more, especially as any more/future restrictions may be similarly retrospective. But then I'm lucky enough that low-level CRS (or at a push, just hydrochloric) is suitable with my tap water, so that will suffice for now.
What the future holds for acids in general, who knows. Though there is always RO or perhaps certain bottled water to fall back on if necessary. It might even encourage a resurgence of darker beers. If people can recall them and our brewing heritage anyway, in the face of the pale american-style influx!
Kev