Hydrofluoric Acid

Hydrofluoric Acid is a colourless gas or a fuming liquid and is a poison.

Uses​

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HF is the precursor for almost all fluorine compounds such as fluorides and organofluorine compounds. ​
It can dissolve most oxides and silicates and is often used as a cleaning agent for stainless and carbon steels.

Recommended control measures​

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This is a controlled chemical (Poison (UCL ref PA033)) – see information on standards for all controlled chemicals

Always have a designated HF treatment and spill kit available​

Minimise the likelihood of exposure​

• Only work within a dedicated fume cupboard that has warning signs
• Avoid heating and other activates that would produce a gas
• If HF gas is produced, or hydrofluoric acid (a solution of HF in water), do not store in glass as it reacts with the container
• Always use the most appropriate gloves for the work being done. Chemical resistance gloves do provide protection against HF but this depends on the concentration of HF e.g. level 6 gloves (highest for chemical resistance) will provide full protection (> 480 minutes for 10% solution but only 21 minutes for a 73% solution

First aid​

• Wash exposed skin for at least 20 minutes. Rinse exposed eyes for at least 20 minutes
• Apply calcium gluconate gel to the area. Wear gloves while doing this to prevent secondary exposure. The gel will turn white when it reacts with the acid
• As symptoms may not occur for several hours, treatment must be given to all suspected areas of exposure​
• Take to the hospital as soon as possible​
• If exposed to a gas, you can treat with oxygen​
• If ingested do not induce vomiting​

Health surveillance ​

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Not required.

Chemical safety library

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> Read more about control measures for chemicals in our chemical safety library