Hydrofluoric Acid

Hydrofluoric Acid is a solution of hydrogen fluoride (HF) in water. It is a precursor to almost all fluorine compounds, including pharmaceuticals such as fluoxetine (Prozac), diverse materials such as PTFE (Teflon), and elemental fluorine itself. It is a colorless solution that is highly corrosive, capable of dissolving many materials, especially oxides.

Chemical Properties

Hydrofluoric acid has a number of unique properties. It is a weak acid when compared to other hydrohalic acids, such as hydrochloric acid. This is because the fluoride ion is highly basic, due to the high electronegativity of fluorine. Hydrofluoric acid also has the ability to dissolve many materials, especially oxides.

Uses

Hydrofluoric acid has a variety of uses. It is used in the production of Teflon, fluorocarbons, and aluminium fluoride. It is also used in the glass etching and engraving industries, as well as in the production of semiconductors.

Health Effects

Exposure to hydrofluoric acid can cause severe health effects. It can cause burns, which may not be immediately painful or visible. It can also cause systemic toxicity, due to the fluoride ion's ability to interfere with body calcium metabolism.

Treatment

Treatment for hydrofluoric acid exposure includes immediate washing of the affected area with water, application of calcium gluconate gel, and medical evaluation.

See Also

• Hydrochloric Acid
• Sulfuric Acid
• Nitric Acid

References

Hydrofluoric Acid Resources
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