Hydrofluoric acid
Hydrofluoric acid (HF), CAS 7664-39-3, is a highly corrosive and versatile inorganic acid with a molecular weight of 20.01 g/mol. It exists as a clear, colourless liquid and is a vital reagent in numerous industrial and laboratory processes. Its unique ability to dissolve glass and its reactivity make it indispensable for etching, cleaning, and in the production of various fluorinated compounds.
- IUPAC
- HF
Glass Etching and Frosting
Hydrofluoric acid is widely used to etch intricate designs into glass surfaces or to create a frosted appearance. Its chemical reaction with silicon dioxide (SiO2) in glass allows for precise material removal.
Semiconductor Manufacturing
In the microelectronics industry, HF is critical for cleaning and etching silicon wafers. It selectively removes native oxides and contaminants, ensuring the integrity of semiconductor devices.
Chemical Synthesis
As a key inorganic acid, hydrofluoric acid serves as a fluorinating agent and catalyst in the synthesis of a wide array of organic and inorganic fluorochemicals, including refrigerants and polymers.
Metal Pickling and Cleaning
It is employed in metal treatment processes, such as pickling stainless steel, to remove surface oxides and scale. Its effectiveness extends to cleaning and preparing metal surfaces for further processing.
Petroleum Refining
Hydrofluoric acid acts as a catalyst in alkylation units within petroleum refineries. This process is essential for producing high-octane gasoline components.
| Molecular weight | 20.01 |
|---|---|
| Empirical formula | HF |
| Assay | 48%48.0-51.0% (ACS specification) |
| Density | 1.15 g/mL at 25 °C(lit.) |
| Concentration | ≥40% |
| Vapour pressure | 25 mmHg (20 °C) |
| Vapour density | 1.27 (vs air) |
| Impurities tested | ≤0.01% fluorosilicic acid |
Hazard statements
- H300Fatal if swallowed
- H310Fatal in contact with skin
- H314Causes severe skin burns and eye damage
- H330Fatal if inhaled
Precautionary statements
- P260Do not breathe dust, fume, gas, mist, vapours or spray
- P264Wash thoroughly after handling
- P280Wear protective gloves, clothing and eye/face protection
- P284Wear respiratory protection
- P301IF SWALLOWED
- P302IF ON SKIN
| Protective equipment | Eyeshields, Faceshields, full-face particle respirator type N100 (US), Gloves, respirator cartridge type N100 (US), type P1 (EN143) respirator filter, type P2 (EN 143) respirator cartridges, type P3 (EN 143) respirator cartridges |
|---|---|
| Transport (UN / ADR) | UN 1790 8/PG 2 |
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 2 |
| Hazard codes (EU) | T+,C |
| Risk statements (R) | 26/27/28-35 |
| Safety statements (S) | 7/9-26-36/37-45 |
| Cation traces | As: ≤0.005 ppmCu: ≤0.1 ppmFe: ≤1 ppmheavy metals (as Pb): ≤0.5 ppm |
| Anion traces | SO42- and SO32-: ≤5 ppmchloride (Cl-): ≤5 ppmphosphate (PO43-): ≤1 ppm |
| Ignition residue | ≤5 ppm |
Hazard information is provided for guidance. Always consult the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS), available on request, before handling.
Documentation
Every batch ships with a Certificate of Analysis covering assay, identity and purity; the grade is confirmed against your enquiry. Safety Data Sheets and technical data sheets are available on request.
Supply & logistics
Samples for technical evaluation; bulk MOQ by grade and packaging. In-stock material ships in 7–10 working days, worldwide, with full export documentation.
What is Hydrofluoric acid used for?
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Hydrofluoric acid is used for glass etching, semiconductor manufacturing, chemical synthesis, metal pickling and cleaning, and as a catalyst in petroleum refining.
What are the CAS number and formula for Hydrofluoric acid?
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The CAS number for Hydrofluoric acid is 7664-39-3 and its chemical formula is HF.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?
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Tech Serve Solutions supplies Hydrofluoric acid with an assay of 48.0-51.0% (ACS specification). We do not represent this product as USP, BP, or EP grade.
What are the main safety hazards associated with Hydrofluoric acid?
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Hydrofluoric acid is extremely corrosive and toxic. Hazards include severe burns on contact, fatal ingestion, inhalation, and skin absorption. Appropriate personal protective equipment, including eyeshields, face shields, and chemical-resistant gloves and respirators, is mandatory.
How is Hydrofluoric acid packed and exported?
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Hydrofluoric acid is packed and shipped in accordance with UN 1790 regulations for hazardous materials, typically in specialised containers suitable for corrosive liquids, ensuring safe handling during export.
How can I request a quote or sample for Hydrofluoric acid?
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Please contact our sales team via the website or your dedicated account manager to request a quotation or to arrange for a product sample.
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