Muriatic Acid Definition
Muriatic acid refers to a technical grade of hydrochloric acid (HCl). It is created by dissolving hydrogen chloride into water. Muriatic acid reacts strongly to metals, amines, metal oxides and alkaline substances. Muriatic acid has many uses in cleaning and manufacturing, but it is also highly corrosive and toxic.
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Properties
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Muriatic acid is a colorless fuming liquid, although it may appear yellow due to impurities. It gives off the strong acrid odor of hydrogen chloride. It is stable and nonflammable under normal conditions, but may explode in heat or direct sunlight. Muriatic acid has a molecular weight of 36.46.
Function
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Muriatic acid is used to clean brick and metal surfaces, etch concrete and maintain swimming pools. It is also used in the manufacturing of other chemicals. Muriatic acid can also lower the pH of masonry, which helps paint adhere better.
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Safety Precautions
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Ensure adequate ventilation when working with muriatic acid, and wear rubber gloves, safety goggles and protective clothing that covers all exposed skin. Dilute muriatic acid by adding acid slowly to cool water. Never add water to acid, and never use hot water. Never mix muriatic acid with other chemicals since it is highly reactive. After cleaning or etching a surface, flush the surface thoroughly with clean water.
Storage
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Store muriatic acid in a dry, cool storage area that has adequate ventilation and acid-proof floors. Keep muriatic acid away from heat and sunlight, and do not store it near incompatible chemicals like alkaline chemicals. Do not use empty muriatic acid containers to store other solutions or chemicals, since some residue may remain.
Disposal
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Excess muriatic acid and used containers are considered hazardous waste. Never dispose of muriatic acid down the drain, down a storm drain or in the trash. Muriatic acid does not biodegrade and may be harmful to the environment. Instead, call your local wastewater treatment facility or take muriatic acid to a hazardous household waste collection area.
Warning
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Muriatic acid can be fatal if inhaled or swallowed. If you or someone you know has been exposed to muriatic acid, call 911 or the National Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222. Move the victim to fresh air if exposure was caused by breathing. If acid was consumed, do not induce vomiting. Give the victim water or milk if they are able to swallow.
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References
- Photo Credit tropical pool image by brelsbil from Fotolia.com
