The Ultimate Guide to Using The Ordinary Hydrochloric Acid: Benefits and Precautions

Ordinary Hydrochloric Acid: A Comprehensive Guide

Hydrochloric acid (HCl) is a highly corrosive and strong acid found in the stomach. It aids in digestion and helps break down food. However, hydrochloric acid has a wide variety of uses beyond the human body. Many industries use hydrochloric acid to produce a multitude of products, from PVC plastics to pharmaceuticals. In this article, we will explore the many uses of ordinary hydrochloric acid and how it is created.

What is ordinary hydrochloric acid?

Ordinary hydrochloric acid is a solution of water and hydrogen chloride gas. The solution is usually 37% hydrochloric acid and 63% water, although this concentration can vary. The solution is colorless, highly corrosive, and has a pungent smell. The acid is typically stored and transported in plastic, glass, or ceramic containers.

How is hydrochloric acid created?

Hydrochloric acid is created by combining hydrogen (H2) and chlorine (Cl2) gas in the presence of ultraviolet light or a catalyst. However, creating hydrochloric acid from these two gases, which are both diatomic, is difficult and dangerous. Instead, the majority of hydrochloric acid is created through the reaction of common salt, or sodium chloride (NaCl), and sulfuric acid (H2SO4). When salt and sulfuric acid are combined, they react to form sodium sulfate (Na2SO4) and hydrogen chloride gas (HCl). The hydrogen chloride gas is then mixed with water to create ordinary hydrochloric acid.

What are the uses of hydrochloric acid?

Hydrochloric acid has a wide variety of uses. One of the primary uses of hydrochloric acid is in the production of PVC plastics. Hydrochloric acid is used to dissolve and purify PVC resin before it is processed into plastic products. Hydrochloric acid is also used in the leather-tanning process to remove hair and excess tissue from animal hides. Additionally, hydrochloric acid is used in the production of household cleaners and detergents, such as tile and toilet bowl cleaners. In the pharmaceutical industry, hydrochloric acid is used to regulate the pH of medications and to dissolve and purify certain drugs.

Handling and safety precautions

Hydrochloric acid is a highly corrosive acid and can cause severe burns and damage to the skin and eyes. It is essential to wear protective gear, such as safety glasses, gloves, and a lab coat, when handling hydrochloric acid. Additionally, hydrochloric acid should be kept away from other chemicals and water, as it can produce dangerous gas when mixed with other substances. If hydrochloric acid comes into contact with the skin or eyes, immediate and thorough flushing with water is essential. If ingested, seek immediate medical attention.

Conclusion

In conclusion, hydrochloric acid is a highly versatile chemical used in many industries. From PVC manufacturing to pharmaceuticals, its uses are extensive. By understanding how hydrochloric acid is created, its properties, and safety precautions, we can effectively use and handle the chemical in the workplace and industries.

• The article discussed the composition and properties of ordinary hydrochloric acid.
• Hydrochloric acid is typically created through the reaction of common salt and sulfuric acid.
• Uses of hydrochloric acid include PVC manufacturing, tanning, and pharmaceuticals.
• Handling hydrochloric acid requires appropriate safety precautions, as it is highly corrosive and dangerous.