Ammonium Hydrogen Difluoride

AMMONIUM HYDROGEN DIFLUORIDE

Other Names: Ammonium bifluoride, acidic ammonium fluoride

CAS Number: 1341-49-7
Sum Formula: NH₄HF₂
Molar Mass: 57.04 g/mol
Appearance: White or colorless solid, crystals or powder

Ammonium hydrogen difluoride is an inorganic ammonium salt of hydrofluoric acid. The product has acidic properties and is readily soluble in water. In aqueous solutions, it may release fluoride ions and exhibit etching properties towards glass, silicates and certain mineral surfaces. It is used as a technical and laboratory reagent, particularly in processes requiring fluoride ions or an acidic reaction medium. Due to its chemical properties and hazards associated with fluoride compounds, special care is required during handling.

Chemical and Physical Properties

Form: Solid, powder or crystals
Color: White to colorless
Odor: Odorless or slightly irritating
Solubility in Water: Readily soluble
pH of Aqueous Solution: Acidic
Chemical Character: Inorganic fluoride salt with acidic properties
Reactivity: May react with bases, acids, glass, silicates and certain metals
Stability: Stable under normal storage conditions, protect from moisture and incompatible materials

Applications

Technical Processes: Used as a fluoride reagent in technological processes requiring the presence of fluoride ions.

Surface Treatment: Applied in etching, cleaning or preparation of mineral, glass and metallic surfaces.

Laboratory Use: Used in chemical procedures, solution preparation and as a fluoride source in laboratory reactions and research work.

Chemical Processes: Applied in reactions requiring an acidic medium and the presence of fluoride ions.

Removal of Mineral Deposits: May be used in specialized technical applications for the removal of selected inorganic deposits.

Safety

Dangerous product. May be toxic if swallowed, in contact with skin or if dust is inhaled. May cause serious irritation or burns and may lead to systemic effects associated with fluoride ions. Avoid contact with skin, eyes and clothing. Do not inhale dust. Use appropriate personal protective equipment, including chemically resistant gloves, safety goggles or face protection and protective clothing. Work only in a well-ventilated area or under a fume hood.

Handling & Storage

Store in a tightly closed, chemically resistant container in a dry, cool and well-ventilated place. Protect from moisture. Do not store in glass containers or near materials sensitive to fluoride compounds. Keep away from strong bases, strong acids, oxidizing agents, glass, silicates and chemically incompatible substances. Wash hands thoroughly after handling and prevent contamination of working surfaces.