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  for Metal Finishing since 1989
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HBF4 Strength

Is tetrafluoroboric acid (HBF4) a strong acid?

Floyd L. Wiseman
- West Point, New York
2003

That is extremely relative to what you are comparing it to and what it is reacting with.

James Watts
- Navarre, Florida
2003

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Tetrafluoroboric acid (aka fluoroboric acid) is a strong acid and can be highly toxic. It is normally supplied at between 42 and 48% strength and is only found as a solution. The acid will slowly hydrolyse in the presence of water to produce HBF3OH and HF. The really nasty thing about it is the hydrofluoric acid -this is extremely toxic to human cells and must not be inhaled or ingested. Similarly, if it comes into contact with skin, you must treat it as an HF burn. If you have to use it, follow the instructions on the MSDS and ensure you are adequately trained in all aspects of its use.

Trevor Crichton
R&D practical scientist
Chesham, Bucks, UK
2003