Hydrofluoric acid (HF) is a solution of sodium fluoride in water. It is one of the most dangerous acids known and should be treated with care.
It is a highly corrosive acid, capable of dissolving many materials. Its ability to dissolve glass has been known since the 17th century. Liquid hydrofluoric acid is a contact-poison with the potential for deep, initially painless burns and ensuing tissue death. By interfering with body calcium metabolism, the concentrated acid may also cause systemic toxicity and eventual cardiac arrest and fatality.
Why is HF so dangerous?
It has two mechanisms that cause tissue damage
- Chemical burns from tissue penetration of the fluoride ion
- Corrosive burns from free hydrogen ions
HF differs from other acids because the fluoride ion readily penetrates the skin causing destruction of deep tissue layers including bone. The pain associated with this may be delayed for up to 24 hours. If the HF isn't neutralised, then tissue damage may continue for days and result in the loss of a limb.
Hands exposed to HF
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