DESCRIPTION

Hydrochloric Acid occurs as a clear, colorless or slightly yellow, corrosive liquid. It is a water solution of hydrogen chloride of varied concentrations. It is miscible with water and with alcohol. Concentrations of Hydrochloric Acid are expressed in percent by weight or may be expressed in degrees Baumé (°Bé) from which percents of Hydrochloric Acid and specific gravities may readily be derived (see Hydrochloric Acid Table, Appendix IIC). The usually available concentrations are 18°, 20°, 22°, and 23°Bé. Concentrations above 13°Bé (19.6%) fume in moist air, lose hydrogen chloride, and create a corrosive atmosphere. Because of these characteristics, observe suitable precautions during sampling and analysis to prevent losses.