Hydrogen chloride -HCl
This page presents information about hydrogen chloride – or hydrochloric acid - HCl: characteristics, effects on health, detection systems - hydrogen chloride detector - and proper respiratory protective equipment (gas mask or PAPR with E-P3 gas filter).
Hydrogen chloride (HCl) properties
Hydrogen chloride (HCl) - also known as hydrochloric acid under its liquid state - is a natural gas exhausted during volcanic eruptions. This gas is even present in the human body at very low concentrations to give stomach its pH acid. HCl hazards are present in many sectors as this substance is widely used as a base product in the chemical industry (fertilizer production), pharmaceutical industry (drugs synthesis), oil wells and steel production.
| CAS | TWA (8 hours) | STEL (15 minutes) | LEL | IP | Density / Air | Filter / Air |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7647-01-0 | - | 5 ppm | - | 10.18 eV | 1.27 | E-P3 |
Hydrogen chloride effects on health
In its gaseous state, hydrogen chloride is a colorless substance with a pungent and irritant fragrance. Very soluble into water, its reaction releases high heat and hydrogen – a highly explosive gas. Very toxic by inhalation (R23), hydrogen chloride is very corrosive too and causes severe burnings (R35) when in contact with the skin and may seriously damage the eyes.
Hydrogen chloride effects on health (HCl)
Hydrogen chloride detector (HCl)
HCl respiratory protection (Hydrogen chloride)
As hydrogen chloride is irritant to the eyes, it is recommended to use a full face mask for short interventions or a complete powered air purifying respirator equipped with an E-P3 filter. A self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) is required If concentrations exceed 60 times the OEL.