Hydrofluorosilicic acid (H₂SiF₆)

Hexafluorosilicic acid is actually the hydrated form of silicon dioxide. It is a very weak acid with a pH of 10. Hydrofluorosilicic acid is a very dangerous chemical and human contact with it can cause severe injury or death. However, when this chemical is controlled in a stable environment, the risk is significantly reduced.

Applications

  • Hexafluorosilicic acid or fluorosilicic acid is used in water fluoridation, ceramic production, electroplating, bottle sterilization, etc. This acid is also widely used in petrochemicals as a wax and oil remover. It is used in textile manufacturing as an anti-slip agent and in automotive manufacturing to produce insulating polymers.

Maintenance risk

  • Storage of this colorless liquid foam is a challenge because it decomposes upon heating to produce a neutral, toxic fluoride compound that may react violently with alkalis. Hydrofluorosilicic acid is reactive and corrosive to most metals, glass, and minerals.
  • This chemical, like lye and sodium hypochlorite, tends to find its way out and leak.
  • It is incompatible with strong alkaline chemicals and concentrated acids, and reacts with oxidizers, combustible solids, and organic peroxides. It reacts with metals to produce flammable hydrogen gas.
  • Fluorosilicic acid should generally be stored in a closed, cool, dry area away from incompatibles such as fluorine, oxygen difluoride, chlorine trifluoride, and so on.

Maintenance method in plastonic tanks

  • A complete system equipped with the specific properties of this material for storage can reduce the risks associated with these chemicals. Ideal tanks are tanks whose polymer chains act as a network to prevent penetration and leakage. This system design is also useful for maintaining the quality and longer life of tanks containing this corrosive chemical.
  • The tank should be installed on a smooth and smooth concrete, asphalt or uniform steel surface. No ropes, belts or devices for fixing around the tank should be used, and ladders and pipes should be avoided.
  • The use of a secondary tank is recommended.
  • The temperature of transportation and storage according to the standard should not exceed 37 degrees Celsius.
  • The pipes and fittings should have a resistance appropriate to your intended use. The material of the fittings used in tanks to store this material can be: polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride or Teflon. Gaskets made of ethylene propylene diene monomer or Viton are also recommended for sealing. Use flexible joints to reduce vibration caused by expansion and contraction.