Hydrogen Fluoride Information

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Hydrogen Fluoride

Other Names

Hydrofluoric Acid; Fluorhydric Acid; Fluorane

Chemical Formula

HF

CAS Number

7664-39-3

Industry Uses

Chemistry Laboratories; Aluminum Production; Glass Etching

Health Risks

Irritation of eyes, skin, and respiratory system; Pulmonary Edema; Fluorosis

Vapor Pressure

400 mmHg

Water Solubility

Miscible

Flammability

Not-Flammable

Odor

Pungent, Irritating

Hydrogen Fluoride MSDS

What is Hydrogen Fluoride?

Hydrogen Fluoride is a colorless, fuming liquid. Fumes and Liquid HF are corrosive to metals and tissue. Vapors are heavier than air. Short contact with fumes or liquid can cause severe painful burns. Hydrogen fluoride is used in the production of aluminum and chlorofluorocarbons. It is also important to the glass etching and chemical industries. Hydrogen Fluoride is non-flammable, but gas may explode if heated under pressure.

Hydrogen Fluoride Exposure and Health Risks

Hydrogen fluoride inhalation can cause severe respiratory damage including pulmonary edema. Ocular irritation and dermal burns may occur following direct contact with HF. In severe cases, it can cause blindness by rapid destruction of the corneas. HF can be fatal if swallowed, inhaled, or directly contacted. Chronic exposure to low levels of fluoride is beneficial as it prevents dental cavities and treats osteoporosis. Exposure to high levels can cause dental fluorosis or mottling, and very high levels of exposure can cause skeletal fluorosis.

Regulations

The table below summarizes the most-recent exposure limits.

Limit/Level

Type

Organization

1.0 ppm

AEGL-1 (8 hrs)

EPA

12 ppm

AEGL-2 (8 hrs)

EPA

22 ppm

AEGL-3 (8 hrs)

EPA

3 ppm

TWA (8 hrs)

OSHA

3 ppm

TWA (8 hrs)

NIOSH

Sources: NIOSH, OSHA, EPA

Measuring Hydrogen Fluoride

Hydrogen fluoride concentration in the air can be measured in units of parts per million (ppm). Many of our products have digital communication capabilities for easy monitoring and control. We carry portable and fixed hydrogen fluoride monitors and kits. All of our hydrogen fluoride products can be viewed HERE.


D16
The D16 is a versatile tool designed for gas leak detection, personal safety, spot checking, confined entry, and data logging, and more. It can be used as a portable monitor or as a stationary one that can be set to log data over long periods of time. This customizable unit can be fitted with a variety of sensors and is sold with every accessory you may need for fast and accurate portable gas detection. 0-20ppm

D12
The D12 is designed for operation in hazardous areas. Its explosion-proof cast aluminum housing is rated for Class 1, Division 1, Group B, C, D locations and is UL, FM, and CSA certified. This monitor can be fitted with a variety of sensors to be used on a wide range of toxic and combustible gases. 0-20ppm

F12
The Series F12 Gas Transmitter is an Intrinsically Safe monitor designed for the detection of toxic gases in hazardous areas. It is also well suited for general purpose applications. This highly customizable unit can be fitted with a variety of sensors and accessories and is compatible with most fixed mount toxic gas applications. 0-20ppm

F12D
The Series F12D Gas Transmitter is designed for detection of toxic gases in hazardous areas. It is also well suited for general purpose applications. This highly customizable unit can be fitted with a variety of sensors and accessories and is compatible with most fixed mount toxic gas applications. 0-20ppm

B12
The B12 transmitter is a two-wire, 4-29 mA transmitter that is loop-powered to signal linearly proportional to gas concentration. Their electrochemical sensors are designed for use in ambient air or in ventilation ducts. This highly customizable application can be fitted with a variety of sensors and accessories. 0-20ppm

Contact us for help choosing the right monitor for your application