Hydrofluoric, << `hy` droh flu AWR ihk, >> acid is an extremely dangerous inorganic chemical. It is produced by dissolving hydrofluoric gas in water. The chemical formula of hydrofluoric acid is HF. Neutralization of the acid forms salts called fluorides.
Hydrofluoric acid is used in manufacturing aluminum and certain refrigerants. Industry also uses it to etch glass. In the laboratory, hydrofluoric acid is used in separating uranium isotopes (see Uranium ).
Hydrofluoric acid is a colorless liquid with an irritating odor. The acid fumes when exposed to air. It is highly corrosive and can cause serious, painful burns to the skin, eyes, and mucous membranes. Burns from dilute hydrofluoric acid may not be immediately evident, but may appear later as deep ulcerations.
Hydrofluoric acid corrodes glass, ceramic, and many metals. As a result, hydrofluoric acid is usually stored in polyethylene bottles and polyethylene-lined drums.
