Hydrochloric acid (HCl, CAS 7647-01-0) is one of the most important mineral acids in industry and the laboratory — a strong, versatile acid used everywhere from steel pickling to pH control. This guide covers its uses, concentrations, grades and safe handling.
What is hydrochloric acid?
Hydrochloric acid is a solution of hydrogen chloride gas in water. It is a strong acid that fully dissociates, making it highly effective for dissolving metal oxides, adjusting pH and driving acid-catalysed reactions. Concentrated commercial acid is typically around 36–37%.
Common uses
- Metal processing — pickling and descaling of steel before galvanising or coating.
- Chemical manufacturing — production of chlorides, and as a reagent and catalyst in synthesis.
- Water treatment & pH control — neutralisation and regeneration of ion-exchange resins.
- Laboratory — titrations, digestions and general acid chemistry.
Grades and concentration
Hydrochloric acid is supplied in technical grade (e.g. 22 Bé, ~36%) for industrial use and ACS reagent grade (37%) for analytical and laboratory work. Match grade and concentration to your application and request a COA — see our overview of industrial acids and their applications.
Safe handling
Hydrochloric acid is corrosive and releases irritating fumes — always handle with full PPE and good ventilation, and store away from bases, oxidisers and metals. Never mix with hypochlorite bleach, as this releases toxic chlorine gas. An SDS is provided on request.
Buy hydrochloric acid from Ozon Chemical
Ozon Chemical supplies hydrochloric acid ACS reagent 37%, technical-grade hydrochloric acid and a full range of acids & anhydrides — EU-registered, REACH-compliant, with COA/SDS on request and worldwide shipping.
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