Description
Hydrochloric acid (HCL) is a powerful and essential chemical used in a wide array of industrial processes. This highly versatile acid is ideal for applications such as pH adjustment, chemical synthesis, metal cleaning, and water treatment.
Hydrochloric acid (HCL) plays a critical role in various industrial processes due to its strong acidic properties. It is widely used in the production of chlorides, fertilizers, and dyes, as well as in the refinement of metals. Its effectiveness in removing rust and scale from steel surfaces makes it a key component in steel manufacturing and pickling processes.
Additionally, hydrochloric acid is utilized in the treatment of wastewater, helping to neutralize alkaline substances and maintain pH balance in water treatment facilities. This versatile acid is indispensable across multiple sectors, offering efficiency and reliability for industrial operations.
Key Information
Chemical Formula: HCl
CAS Number: 7647-01-0
Chemical Properties of Hydrochloric Acid
- Corrosiveness: Hydrochloric acid is highly corrosive to most metals and must be handled with appropriate materials, such as plastic or rubber-lined containers.
- Reactivity: HCl readily reacts with bases to form salts and water, a property used in neutralization reactions. It also reacts with oxides and carbonates, releasing CO₂.
- Oxidizing/Reducing Properties: Although not an oxidizing agent, hydrochloric acid can liberate hydrogen gas when reacting with metals such as zinc or magnesium.
- Solubility: Hydrochloric acid is highly soluble in water, forming strong acidic solutions. The dissociation of HCl in water releases hydrogen ions (H⁺) and chloride ions (Cl⁻), making it a strong acid.
MSDS
1. Hazards Identification:
- Classification: Corrosive (to skin, eyes, and respiratory tract)
- Signal Word: Danger
- Hazard Statements:
- Causes severe skin burns and eye damage
- Harmful if inhaled
- May cause respiratory irritation
2. Composition/Information on Ingredients:
- Hydrochloric Acid Concentration: Typically 30-37%
- Water Concentration: Balance
- Impurities: Trace amounts of other chemicals depending on production processes.
3. First-Aid Measures:
- Inhalation: Move to fresh air immediately. Seek medical attention if breathing difficulties occur.
- Skin Contact: Remove contaminated clothing and rinse skin with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes. Get medical attention.
- Eye Contact: Flush eyes with water for at least 15 minutes while holding eyelids open. Seek immediate medical attention.
- Ingestion: Rinse mouth, do not induce vomiting. Seek immediate medical attention.
4. Fire-Fighting Measures:
- Suitable Extinguishing Media: Water spray, dry chemical, carbon dioxide, or foam.
- Hazardous Combustion Products: Hydrogen chloride gas may be released.
- Protective Equipment: Use self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) and full protective clothing.
5. Accidental Release Measures:
- Personal Precautions: Evacuate the area. Use personal protective equipment (PPE), including chemical-resistant gloves, goggles, and respiratory protection.
- Spill Cleanup: Neutralize with lime or soda ash. Absorb with inert material and dispose of according to local regulations.
6. Handling and Storage:
- Handling: Avoid inhalation, ingestion, and skin or eye contact. Use in well-ventilated areas.
- Storage: Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area in corrosion-resistant containers. Keep away from incompatible materials such as strong bases, metals, and oxidizers.
7. Exposure Controls/Personal Protection:
- Engineering Controls: Ensure adequate ventilation, especially in enclosed spaces.
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
- Respiratory Protection: Use a respirator with appropriate filters.
- Hand Protection: Chemical-resistant gloves (e.g., neoprene or rubber).
- Eye Protection: Chemical safety goggles or face shield.
- Skin Protection: Acid-resistant clothing and footwear.
8. Physical and Chemical Properties:
- Appearance: Clear to slightly yellow liquid
- Odor: Pungent, irritating odor
- pH: < 1 (strongly acidic)
- Boiling Point: ~110°C (for concentrated solution)
- Melting Point: -114.2°C
- Solubility: Completely soluble in water
9. Stability and Reactivity:
- Stability: Stable under normal conditions.
- Reactivity: Reacts with metals, releasing hydrogen gas; incompatible with strong bases and oxidizers.
- Hazardous Decomposition Products: Hydrogen chloride gas.
10. Toxicological Information:
- Acute Toxicity: Harmful if inhaled or ingested. Corrosive to skin and eyes.
- Chronic Effects: Prolonged exposure can cause damage to the respiratory system and may result in chronic lung conditions.
11. Ecological Information:
- Environmental Impact: Harmful to aquatic life. Hydrochloric acid can lower the pH of water bodies, affecting aquatic organisms.
- Persistence and Degradability: Readily neutralized by natural buffering agents in the environment.
12. Disposal Considerations:
- Waste Disposal: Dispose of in accordance with local, regional, and national regulations. Neutralize before disposal.
- Contaminated Packaging: Clean thoroughly before disposal or reuse, if allowed.
13. Transport Information:
- UN Number: 1789
- Transport Hazard Class: 8 (Corrosive)
- Packing Group: II
- Proper Shipping Name: Hydrochloric Acid
- Environmental Hazards: Marine pollutant in certain concentrations.
14. Regulatory Information:
- Safety Regulations: Complies with OSHA Hazard Communication Standard (29 CFR 1910.1200), WHMIS (Canada), and REACH (Europe).
15. Other Information:
- Training Advice: Ensure personnel handling the chemical are trained in safety procedures and the use of personal protective equipment.
- Labeling Requirements: Clearly label containers with hazard symbols and precautionary statements.
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