Perchloric

Perchloric, in chemical terminology, refers to compounds derived from perchloric acid (HClO4) and its salts, the perchlorates. In these species chlorine is in the +7 oxidation state, and the tetra-oxyanion ClO4− is central to their chemistry.

Perchloric acid is a strong mineral acid. In aqueous solution it is essentially completely dissociated, making it one of the strongest common acids. Concentrated HClO4 is highly oxidizing and extremely corrosive; it is thermally unstable when dry and can form fuming solutions. Its properties vary with concentration and temperature; it is miscible with water and boils at about 204°C.

Perchlorates are salts of perchloric acid. Common examples include ammonium perchlorate (NH4ClO4) and potassium perchlorate (KClO4). Perchlorates are widely used as oxidizers in solid propellants and pyrotechnics, and they appear in some analytical and laboratory procedures.

Safety and handling: Perchloric acid demands stringent controls; it is a strong oxidizer and a corrosive liquid that can react violently with organic materials and reducing agents. Specialized equipment, proper ventilation, and appropriate storage are required. Perchlorate salts can form explosive mixtures with fuels, particularly when dry or heated, and pose handling hazards.

Industrial production: Perchloric acid is produced commercially by oxidation of chlorate solutions and related routes; perchlorates are prepared by electrochemical and chemical methods and widely isolated as soluble salts.