HFcontaining

HF-containing refers to chemical substances that include hydrogen fluoride (HF) as part of their molecular structure or as an integral component. HF itself is a colorless, highly corrosive gas or liquid; in solution, it forms aqueous hydrofluoric acid. HF-containing materials span simple acids to salts that release HF, complex reagents used for fluorination and etching, and hydrogen-bonded complexes used in synthesis.

Typical examples include hydrofluoric acid (HF) and salts such as ammonium bifluoride (NH4HF2) and sodium bifluoride (NaHF2), which contain HF units within the bifluoride anion and release HF upon dissolution. Organic fluoride-reagents such as pyridine–HF complexes (pyridine·HF) or pyridinium polyhydrogen fluoride are used as fluorinating reagents in organic synthesis.

Common applications include etching glass and silicon compounds, metal pretreatment, fluoride catalysis, and selective fluorination in pharmaceuticals and materials science. In industry, these substances enable microfabrication, surface finishing, and glass production.

Hazards and safety: HF is highly corrosive and toxic; exposure can cause severe chemical burns and systemic fluoride poisoning. Handling requires corrosion-resistant equipment, a fume hood, appropriate PPE, and trained personnel. First aid for exposure includes immediate flushing with water; medical attention is essential. Calcium gluconate gel is used for skin exposure under medical guidance. Waste disposal typically follows strict HF-neutralization procedures to form insoluble calcium salts.

See also: hydrofluoric acid, bifluoride, fluorination reagents, safety data sheets for HF-containing substances.