Safety
| Concentration by weight |
Classification | R-Phrases |
|---|---|---|
| 10–25% | Irritant (Xi) | R36/37/38 |
| > 25% | Corrosive (C) | R34 R37 |
Concentrated hydrochloric acid (fuming hydrochloric acid) forms acidic mists. Both the mist and the solution have a corrosive effect on human tissue, with the potential to damage respiratory organs, eyes, skin, and intestines irreversibly. Upon mixing hydrochloric acid with common oxidizing chemicals, such as sodium hypochlorite (bleach, NaClO) or potassium permanganate (KMnO4), the toxic gas chlorine is produced.
- NaClO + 2 HCl → H2O + NaCl + Cl2
- 2 KMnO4 + 16 HCl → 2 MnCl2 + 8 H2O + 2 KCl + 5 Cl2
Personal protective equipment such as rubber or PVC gloves, protective eye goggles, and chemical-resistant clothing and shoes are used to minimize risks when handling hydrochloric acid. The United States Environmental Protection Agency rates and regulates hydrochloric acid as a toxic substance.
The UN number or DOT number is 1789. This number will be displayed on a placard on the container.
Read more about this topic: Hydrochloric Acid
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—William Shakespeare (1564–1616)
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—Joseph Heller (b. 1923)