Material Safety Data Sheet

HYDROFLUORIC ACID, AQUEOUS (49%)

1. CHEMICAL PRODUCT AND COMPANY IDENTIFICATION
Hydrofluoric Acid, Aqueous (49%)

PRODUCT NAME:

OTHER/GENERIC NAMES:
PRODUCT USE:

Aqueous HF, Hydrofluoric Acid Solution, 49% HF, Ultra High Purity HF, Electronic Grade
HF

Metal Pickling, Glass Etching, Chemical Derivatives, Semiconductor etching

MANUFACTURER:

Honeywell International
Industrial Fluorines
101 Columbia Road
Box 1053
Morristown, New Jersey 07962-1053

FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL:

(Monday-Friday, 8:00am-4:30pm EST)
HF Technical Service Department
800-622-5002

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY CALL:

(24 Hours/Day, 7 Days/Week)
800-707-4555 or 602-365-4980
For Transportation Emergencies:
800-424-9300 (CHEMTREC for US)
613-996-6666 (CANUTEC for Canada)

2. COMPOSITION/INFORMATION ON INGREDIENTS
INGREDIENT NAME
Hydrofluoric Acid
Water

CAS NUMBER
7664-39-3
7732-18-5

WEIGHT %
49
51

Trace impurities and additional material names not listed above may also appear in the Regulatory Information Section 15
towards the end of the MSDS. These materials may be listed for local "Right-To-Know" compliance and for other
reasons.

3. HAZARDS IDENTIFICATION
EMERGENCY OVERVIEW: Clear, colorless, corrosive fuming liquid with an
extremely acrid odor. May produce white fumes if spilled. Both liquid and vapor can
cause severe burns to all parts of the body. Specialized medical treatment is required for
all exposures.

MSDS Number: HF-0013

Current Issue Date: February, 2002

Page 1 of 8

MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEET

Hydrofluoric Acid, Aqueous (49%)
POTENTIAL HEALTH HAZARDS
SKIN: Both liquid and vapor can cause severe burns, which may not be immediately painful or visible. HF will
penetrate skin and attack underlying tissues. Large or multiple burns totaling over 25 square inches of
body surface area may also cause hypocalcemia (depletion of calcium in the body) and other toxic effects
which may be fatal. Prolonged contact with very dilute HF solutions will cause burns.
EYES:

Both liquid and vapor can cause irritation or corneal burns.

INHALATION:

Mild exposure: Can irritate nose, throat and respiratory system. Onset of symptoms may be
delayed for several hours.
Severe exposure: Can cause nose and throat burns, lung inflammation and pulmonary edema
(fluid in the lungs). Also results in other toxic effects including hypocalcemia (depletion of
calcium in the body) which if not properly treated can result in death.

INGESTION:

Can cause severe mouth, throat and stomach burns and may be fatal if swallowed. Even with
small amounts of dilute solutions, profound and possibly fatal hypocalcemia (depletion of
calcium in body) and systematic toxicity is likely to occur unless medical treatment is promptly
initiated.

DELAYED EFFECTS: The effects of contact with dilute solutions of hydrofluoric acid or its vapors may be
delayed. The potential delay in clinical signs or symptoms for dilute solutions is given
below:
HF Concentration

>50%
20%-50%
0%-20%

Delay in Symptoms

Immediately Apparent
1-8 hours
Up to 24 hours

Can also cause bone and joint changes in humans (Fluorosis).

Carcinogenicity: Hydrofluoric Acid is not listed by NTP, IARC, OSHA or
ACGIH as a carcinogen.
4. FIRST AID MEASURES
SKIN:

Remove the victim from the contaminated area and immediately wash the burned area with plenty of water for a
minimum of 15 minutes. Limit washing to 5 minutes if treatment specific for HF exposure is available.
Remove all contaminated clothing while washing continuously. After thorough washing for at least 5 minutes,
the burned area should be immersed in a solution of 0.13% iced aqueous Zephiran Chloride until pain is
relieved. As an alternate first aid treatment, 2.5% calcium gluconate gel may be continuously massaged into the
burn area until the pain is relieved. For larger burns or burns treated with calcium gluconate gel (in which pain
is present longer than 30 minutes), a physician should inject 5% aqueous calcium gluconate beneath, around
and in the burned area. Use of local anesthetics is not recommended, as reduction in pain is an indicator of
effectiveness of treatment.

MSDS Number: HF-0013

Current Issue Date: February, 2002

Page 2 of 8

MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEET

Hydrofluoric Acid, Aqueous (49%)
EYES:

Irrigate eyes for at least 15 minutes with copious quantities of water, keeping eyelids apart and away from
eyeballs during irrigation. Get competent medical attention immediately, preferably an eye specialist. If a
physician is not immediately available, apply one or two drops of 0.5% tetracaine hydrochloride solution, or
other aqueous topical ophthalmic anesthetic and continue irrigation. Do not use the solution described for skin
treatment. Use no oils or greases unless instructed to do so by a physician. Irrigate with 1% calcium gluconate
in normal saline for 1 to 2 hours to prevent or lessen corneal damage.

INHALATION:

INGESTION:

Move to fresh air. Keep the victim lying down, quiet and warm. Get competent medical attention
immediately. If breathing has stopped, start artificial respiration at once. An authorized person
should administer oxygen to a victim who is having difficulty breathing, until the victim is able to
breathe easily by himself. Do not give stimulants unless instructed to do so by a physician. Victim
should be examined by a physician and held under observation for at least 24 hours. Calcium
Gluconate, 2.5% in normal saline may be given by nebulizer with oxygen.
Drink large amounts of water to dilute. Do not induce vomiting. Several glasses of milk or several
ounces of milk of magnesia may be given for their soothing effect. Take victim to a doctor.

ADVICE TO PHYSICIAN:

For burns of large skin areas (greater than 25 square inches), for ingestion and for
significant inhalation exposure, severe systemic effects may occur. Monitor and correct
for hypocalcemia, cardiac arrhythmias, hypomagnesemia and hyperkalemia. In come
cases renal dialysis may be indicated. For certain burns, especially of the digits, use of
intra-arterial calcium gluconate may be indicated. For inhalation exposures, treat as
chemical pneumonia. Monitor for hypocalcemia. 2.5% calcium gluconate in normal
saline by nebulizer or by IPPB with 100% oxygen may decrease pulmonary damage.
Bronchodilators may also be administered.

5. FIRE FIGHTING MEASURES

FLAMMABLE PROPERTIES
FLASH POINT: Not flammable
Closed cup
FLASH POINT METHOD:
AUTOIGNITION TEMPERATURE: Not applicable
UPPER FLAME LIMIT (volume % in air): Not applicable
LOWER FLAME LIMIT (volume % in air): Not applicable
Not applicable
FLAME PROPAGATION RATE (solids):
Not applicable
OSHA FLAMMABILITY CLASS:
EXTINGUISHING MEDIA:
Use water or suitable agent for fires adjacent to non-leaking tanks or containers of HF. Do not use solid
water streams near ruptured tanks or spills of HF. Acid reacts with water and can splatter acid onto personnel.
UNUSUAL FIRE AND EXPLOSION HAZARDS:
Reaction with certain metals generates flammable and potentially explosive hydrogen gas. Considerable
heat is evolved when contacted with many substances. Heat increases pressure and may explode container. Will react
violently with water.
SPECIAL FIRE FIGHTING PRECAUTIONS/INSTRUCTIONS:
Wear self-contained breathing apparatus approved by NIOSH and full chemical protective clothing. Use water
spray to keep containers cool.
MSDS Number: HF-0013
Current Issue Date: February, 2002

Page 3 of 8

MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEET

Hydrofluoric Acid, Aqueous (49%)
6. ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES
IN CASE OF SPILL OR OTHER RELEASE:
(Always wear recommended personal protective equipment )
Good ventilation is necessary. Discharge will ordinarily be a vapor or a liquid that gives off fumes of HF
gas. Those treating spills or repairing leaks must use full protective equipment. Take actions to minimize
environmental impact. Try to contain spillage and avoid drainage to areas which cannot be treated. Rapid dilution of
the spill with water will reduce the amount of fumes given off.
Carefully neutralize the dilute liquid with lime slurry, soda ash, limestone, caustic soda or other alkaline material.
(See Sections 10 and 13 for more information.)
Spills and releases may have to be reported to Federal and/or local authorities. See Section 15 regarding
reporting requirements.

7. HANDLING AND STORAGE

NORMAL HANDLING:
(Always wear recommended personal protective equipment.)
Do not breathe vapor or mist. Use only with adequate ventilation. Avoid all contact with skin, eyes and
clothing, even dilute solutions. Do not add water to acid.
STORAGE RECOMMENDATIONS:
Store in approved containers only. Store in cool, well-ventilated area. Flammable hydrogen gas can be
generated in contact with metals. Diking of storage tanks is recommended.

8. EXPOSURE CONTROLS/PERSONAL PROTECTION

ENGINEERING CONTROLS:
Sufficient to reduce vapor and acid mists below permissible TLV levels. Packaging and unloading areas and open
processing equipment may require mechanical exhaust systems.
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
SKIN PROTECTION:
For routine product use, wear hydrofluoric acid-resistant jacket, trousers, boots and gauntlet gloves. For
increased protection, use air-supplied totally encapsulating HF resistant protective suit.
EYE PROTECTION:
As a minimum, wear hard hat, chemical safety goggles (plastic lenses), and full face plastic shield.
For increased protection, use air-supplied hydrofluoric acid resistant hood.
RESPIRATORY PROTECTION:
Where required, use a respirator approved by NIOSH for HF gas or mists, as applicable. Some
exposures may require a NIOSH-approved, self-contained breathing apparatus or air supplied
respirator.
ADDITIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS:
Eyewash and quick-drench shower facilities, protected from freezing, should be available where
HF is stored or handled.
MSDS Number: HF-0013
Current Issue Date: February, 2002

Page 4 of 8

MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEET

Hydrofluoric Acid, Aqueous (49%)
EXPOSURE GUIDELINES

(Guidelines exist for the following ingredients)

INGREDIENT NAME
Hydrofluoric acid

ACGIH TLV
3 ppm CEILING

OSHA PEL
3 ppm (TWA)

OTHER LIMIT
3 mg(F)/g creatinine in
urine pre-shift
10 mg(F)/g creatinine
post-shift***

IDLH
OSHA STEL
6 ppm (15 min.)
30 ppm
AIHA Emergency Response Planning Guideline
ERPG-3
ERPG-1
ERPG-2
2 ppm
20 ppm
50 ppm
***
= Biological Exposure Index
OTHER EXPOSURE LIMITS FOR POTENTIAL DECOMPOSITION PRODUCTS: None

9. PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES

APPEARANCE: Colorless liquid, fumes in air
PHYSICAL STATE: Liquid
20.01 (HF)
MOLECULAR WEIGHT
CHEMICAL FORMULA 49% HF in water by weight
ODOR Sharp pungent odor
(Water = 1.0)
1.175 at 60F, (15.5C) 1.16 at 80F (26.6C)
SPECIFIC GRAVITY
(Weight %)
100% by weight
SOLUBILITY IN WATER
pH: Not applicable
BOILING POINT: 224F (106C)
MELTING POINT: -34F (-37C)
VAPOR PRESSURE: 27 mm Hg at 70F (21C)
VAPOR DENSITY (Air = 1.0): 2.21 @ 70F, 1.76 @ 80F
Not applicable
EVAPORATION RATE:
Unknown
% VOLATILES:
15.98 eV
IONIZATION POTENTIAL:
Not flammable.
FLASH POINT:
(Flash point method and additional flammability data are found in section 5.)

10. STABILITY AND REACTIVITY

NORMALLY STABLE? (CONDITIONS TO AVOID): Stable under normal conditions.
INCOMPATIBILITIES:
Glass, concrete and other silicon bearing materials: yield silicon tetrafluoride gas. Pressure buildup from
this process has been known to blow up glass containers. Carbonates, sulfides and cyanides: yield toxic
gases: carbon dioxide, hydrogen sulfide and hydrogen cyanide. Alkalis, some oxides: cause strong
violent exothermic reactions. Common metals: yield hydrogen gas, a fire and explosive reactive
hazard. Corrosive to many materials including natural leather, rubber and many organics. Considerable heat
is evolved and a violent reaction can occur when water is added to HF.

MSDS Number: HF-0013

Current Issue Date: February, 2002

Page 5 of 8

MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEET

Hydrofluoric Acid, Aqueous (49%)
HAZARDOUS DECOMPOSITION PRODUCTS:
Not applicable; boils away as hydrogen fluoride gas and water.
HAZARDOUS POLYMERIZATION: Will not occur.

11. TOXICOLOGICAL INFORMATION

IMMEDIATE (ACUTE) EFFECTS:
Inhalation: LC50 (Rat)
LC50 (Rat)
LC50 (Mouse)

=
=
=

5,100 ppm/5 min

1,300 ppm/60 min
6,247 ppm/5 min

Skin: 2% solution of HF was corrosive to rabbit skin with 1 hour exposure, but not with 1 minute exposure.
DELAYED (SUBCHRONIC AND CHRONIC) EFFECTS:
Prolonged exposure can cause bone and joint changes in humans. (Fluorosis Increased bone density and
mottling of teeth)
OTHER DATA: None

12. ECOLOGICAL INFORMATION

Aquatic toxicity: 60 ppm/*/fish/lethal/fresh water. (*time period not specified).

13. DISPOSAL CONSIDERATIONS

RCRA
Yes
Is the unused product a RCRA hazardous waste if discarded?
U134 (hydrofluoric acid) and D002 (Corrosive)
If yes, the RCRA ID number is:
OTHER DISPOSAL CONSIDERATIONS: As waste disposal methods may vary, contact the supplier for
specific recommendations. Treat small amounts by adding to an excess of water and neutralize with lime slurry, soda ash,
limestone, caustic soda or other alkali. Add to water and neutralize cautiously as reaction is immediate and can be violent.
Considerable amounts of harmful vapors may be released. Good ventilation is required. Dispose of residue (or slurry) by
removal to an approved chemical waste landfill or by an approved waste contractor.
The information offered here is for the product as shipped. Use and/or alterations to the product such as mixing with other
materials may significantly change the characteristics of the material and alter the RCRA classification and the proper
disposal method.

14. TRANSPORT INFORMATION

CLASS 8 (CORROSIVE), PACKING GROUP, PG II,
POISON
PROPER SHIPPING NAME: RQ, HYDROFLUORIC ACID (for quantities greater than 204 lbs.)
UN 1790
US DOT ID NUMBER:
UN 1790 (PIN # in Canada)
US DOT HAZARD CLASS:

MSDS Number: HF-0013

Current Issue Date: February, 2002

Page 6 of 8

MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEET

Hydrofluoric Acid, Aqueous (49%)
For additional information on shipping regulations affecting this material, contact the information number found in Section
1.

15. REGULATORY INFORMATION

TOXIC SUBSTANCES CONTROL ACT (TSCA)
TSCA INVENTORY STATUS:
OTHER TSCA ISSUES:

Hydrofluoric Acid, Aqueous is listed.

None

SARA TITLE III/CERCLA:

RQs and TPQs:
"Reportable Quantities" (RQs) and/or "Threshold Planning Quantities" (TPQs) exist for the following ingredients.
INGREDIENT NAME
Hydrofluoric Acid

SARA/CERCLA RQ (lbs)
100 as 100% HF

SARA EHS TPQ (lbs)

100 as 100% HF

Spills or releases resulting in the loss of any ingredient at or above its RQ requires immediate notification to the
National Response Center [(800) 424-8802] and to your Local Emergency Planning Committee.
SECTION 311 HAZARD CLASS:

Immediate. Delayed

SARA 313 TOXIC CHEMICALS:

The following ingredients are SARA 313 "Toxic Chemicals". CAS numbers and weight percents are found
in Section 2.
INGREDIENT NAME
Hydrofluoric Acid

COMMENT
None

STATE RIGHT-TO-KNOW
In addition to the ingredients found in Section 2, the following are listed for state right-to-know purposes.
WEIGHT % COMMENT
INGREDIENT NAME
No ingredients in this section
ADDITIONAL REGULATORY INFORMATION: None

MSDS Number: HF-0013

Current Issue Date: February, 2002

Page 7 of 8

MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEET

Hydrofluoric Acid, Aqueous (49%)
WHMIS CLASSIFICATION (CANADA):
Class D, Division 1, Subdivision A and
Class E
This product has been classified in accordance with the hazard criteria of the CPR and the MSDS contains all the
information required by the CPR.
FOREIGN INVENTORY STATUS:
Canadian DSL (Domestic Substances List)
EINECS (European Inventory of Existing Chemical Substances) (EINECS #:231-634-8)

16. OTHER INFORMATION

CURRENT ISSUE DATE:
PREVIOUS ISSUE DATE:

January, 2002
January, 2001

CHANGES TO MSDS FROM PREVIOUS ISSUE DATE ARE DUE TO THE FOLLOWING:
Minor wording changes in Sections 1,3,4,6,7,8,10, & 13 for clarification. (Jan 02)
OTHER INFORMATION:

National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA) Rating

Health 4, Flammability 0, Reactivity 1, Special Instruction None
Hazardous Materials Information System (HMIS) Rating
Health 3, Flammability 0, Reactivity 1, Personal Protective Equipment - X

MSDS Number: HF-0013

Current Issue Date: February, 2002

Page 8 of 8