Intro to Hydrogen Fluoride Gas
Hydrogen fluoride is an inorganic compound with the formula HF and is a colorless gas at temperatures above 67°F / 19°C or liquid at colder temperatures, both with a pungent odor. Even in liquid form, it fumes creating a very dangerous breathing hazard. When this compound is dissolved in water it's known as hydrofluoric acid. Hydrogen fluoride can be released when other compounds, such as ammonium fluoride (NH4F), are combined with water.
HF is used as a precursor to creating other chemical compounds from polymers and pharmaceuticals such as Prozac. Another common use for it is in the petrochemical industry as a component of superacids.
Hydrogen fluoride (HF) is a colorless gas or liquid that is highly corrosive and toxic. It is a member of the hydrogen halides. Anhydrous hydrogen fluoride is a pure form of HF that is a powerful solvent. Hydrogen fluoride readily dissolves in water to form colorless hydrofluoric acid solutions.
Hydrogen fluoride is a weak acid, but it is highly reactive and can cause severe burns and damage to the skin, eyes, and respiratory system. Hydrogen fluoride exposure can also lead to increased fluoride concentrations in the body, which can cause a variety of health problems, including dental fluorosis and skeletal fluorosis. Hydrogen fluoride vapor is particularly dangerous, as it can be inhaled and absorbed into the bloodstream. Dilute solutions of HF can also be hazardous, especially if they come into contact with the skin or eyes. Hydrogen fluoride is used in a variety of industrial processes, including the production of fluorine compounds such as Teflon and refrigerants. It is also used in the semiconductor industry to etch silicon wafers.
One of the common dangers to industrial workers is that it's extremely corrosive to a wide range of materials. HF can cause painful burns on the skin and severe eye damage.
Gas Characteristics
- Acidic
- Extremely toxic
- Highly corrosive to metals, glass, silica, silicic acid, and tissue.
- Soluble in water or alcohol.
- Colorless gas or fuming liquid (below 67°F) with a pungent irritating odor.
- HF is lighter than air but if released, creates a vapor that is heavier than air.
- A common aqueous solution is called hydrofluoric acid.
- Reacts violently with bases and is corrosive to most metals forming an explosive gas.
- The molecular formula is HF.
- Also known as anhydrous fluoride, aqueous hydrogen fluoride, HF-A, fluorane, and hydrofluoric acid.
- CAS 7664-39-3
FIRST AID
- If INHALED move the impacted person to fresh air. Begin rescue breathing. Seek medical attention for 24-48 hours after breathing overexposure, as pulmonary edema may be delayed. Inhaling HF can irritate the lungs causing coughing and shortness of breath.
- If SKIN CONTACT is made immediately wash the skin with water. Apply 2.5% Calcium Gluconate gel to the affected skin. Massage the gel into the skin while wearing rubber gloves. Continue to reapply until the pain is relieved. Seek medical attention. Contact can cause skin irritation and severe deep-tissue burns. The burn may even be delayed in developing by a few hours.
- If the EYES are contacted, immediately wash the eyes with large amounts of water for at least 30 minutes. Get medical attention immediately.
- If INGESTED, have the individual take several calcium or magnesium tablets or liquid antiacid with 1-2 glasses of water or milk to neutralize. Do not induce vomiting.
IF ACCIDENTALLY RELEASED
- Please make sure to evacuate the area immediately.
- Isolation distance:
- Spill: 100 meters or 330 feet
- Fire: 1600 meters or 1 mile
- Isolation distance:
- Remove ignition sources if safe.
- Ventilate the area.
- Stop the flow of gas if it's safe to do so. Remove leaking cylinders outside.
- For a liquid spill, allow dispersing, then cover it with sodium carbonate or an equal mix of soda ash and slaked lime.
- Water spray can be used to absorb hydrogen fluoride vapors escaping from leaking containers.
- Don't wash into the sewers.
- You may need to contain HF as hazardous waste. Contact your local environmental protection agency.