What is Safe-HCL and what are the differences to Hydrochloric / Muriatic Acid?

What is Safe-HCL?

Safe-HCL is a patented, chemically modified acid formula that performs comparably to hydrochloric acid, while being far safer for humans and the environment. Safe-HCL is a synthetic (man-made) product that has similar solubilizing properties of Hydrochloric Acid (which is GOOD) without the extremely high rates of corrosion and reactivity (which is BAD).

Safe-HCL is a hybrid solution that falls between how a high strength mineral acid and a low strength organic acid would react. Safe-HCL is basically a super-concentrated solution of Hydrogen (H+). It has a stronger bond to the H+ ion than what a HCl molecule does, and therefore creates a more controlled reaction rate. Not allowing the H+ ion to easily react in the presence of Carbonates (CaCO3) or Iron (Fe) is what generates the slower spend and extremely low corrosion properties. Safe-HCL has minimal fumes, is noncorrosive to the skin and tissue, and biodegrades more quickly than hydrochloric acid. You can dilute Safe-HCL with water on a 1:1 to 1:100 ratio depending on your application.

Differences between Safe-HCL and Hydrochloric / Muriatic Acid

 

Properties	Safe-HCL	Hydrochloric / Muriatic Acid
Immediately Active	YES	YES
pH	< 1	< 1
Reaction Rate	Moderate	Very Rapid
Biodegradable	YES	NO
Exothermic	Mildly	Highly
Health Rating	0 – Minimal (No Precautions Necessary)	3- Serious – (Toxic – Full Protective Suit and Breathing Apparatus should be  worn)
Reactivity Rating	0 – Minimal (Normally Stable. Does not react to water)	2 – Moderate (Unstable, may react with water)
Odor	Slight	Pungent Odor
Color	Yellow to Brown	Clear

What is Hydrochloric Acid?

Hydrochloric acid (HCl) is a highly corrosive and strong mineral acid. It is commonly used in various industrial processes, including the production of organic and inorganic compounds, as well as in the processing of metals. 

In its pure form, hydrochloric acid is a colorless and highly pungent solution with a distinctive acidic odor. It is a strong acid that can dissolve many materials, including metals, minerals, and organic compounds. Due to its corrosive properties, hydrochloric acid must be handled with care and appropriate safety precautions must be taken during its storage, transportation, and use.

Hydrochloric Acid Hazards:

Hydrochloric acid (and its fumes) have the potential to corrode human tissue and damage the respiratory system, intestine, skin, mucous membranes, and eyes irrevocably. Long-term exposure at work reportedly causes chronic bronchitis, dermatitis, and gastritis in employees. According to EPA tests,  hydrochloric acid has moderate to high acute toxicity from inhalation.