Hydrogen Chloride (HCl)

Hydrogen chloride (HCl) – also known as hydrochloric acid under its liquid state – is a natural gas exhausted during volcanic eruptions. This 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, pharmaceutical industry, oils wells and steel production.

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 burns (R35) when in contact with the skin and may seriously damage the eyes.