- Hydrochloric Acid is an aqueous solution of hydrogen chloride gas.
- It is a colorless liquid with an irritating and pungent odor and dissolves very well in water.
- Hydrochloric Acid is used in the chemical, food and pharmaceutical industries, among others.
What is Hydrochloric Acid?
Hydrochloric Acid is an inorganic chemical compound, more specifically, an aqueous solution of gaseous hydrogen chloride. It belongs to the anaerobic acids. Dilute Hydrochloric Acid occurs naturally in the gastric juices of humans and other mammals and is responsible for good digestion. For industrial purposes, it is produced synthetically. It is formed by the reaction of sulfuric acid and sodium chloride, burning hydrogen into chlorine, and is also a by-product of the chlorination of various organic compounds. The latter method of extraction is most commonly used in industry.
Hydrochloric Acid is essential in many industries. Want to learn more about this unique substance and its applications? Then be sure to read on!
Properties of Hydrochloric Acid
Hydrochloric Acid is a colorless or light yellow liquid with an irritating, pungent odor. The yellow coloration indicates the presence of silver ions. It is very soluble in water and forms vapors on contact. Hydrochloric Acid is highly corrosive. It is also a stable acid that retains its properties for a long time.
Hydrochloric Acid can occur in different concentrations, it depends on the application. When used in the food industry, it usually has a low concentration. It usually does not exceed 38%, although Hydrochloric Acid can reach concentrations of up to 40%, but then its subsequent transport and storage require special precautions. Foodcom S.A. supplies its Business Partners with Hydrochloric Acid in IBC tanks and tank cars, and it has a shelf life of two years.
Hydrochloric Acid application
As mentioned above, Hydrochloric Acid is an important ingredient in various industrial sectors. Among others, it is used in:
- chemical industry,
- food industry,
- pharmaceutical industry,
- cosmetic industry,
- tanning industry.
Hydrochloric Acid is often used in laboratories. It acts as a pH regulator and is involved in the production of chemical reagents. It is also a component of adhesives and is used to clean metals. Hydrochloric Acid is also widely used in the production of plastics, such as beverage bottles, cosmetics and detergents. It is also used in the production of polyvinyl chloride.
Hydrochloric Acid has an important function in water treatment. It enables the removal of acidic calcium and magnesium bicarbonates from liquids. If you want to learn more about the chemical compounds used in water treatment, read our article on Ferric Chloride.
In the food industry, Hydrochloric Acid is an acidity regulator. It is added to many products and is used in the production of Gelatin. In the cosmetics industry, on the other hand, it is used in the manufacture of hair dyes and bleaching agents.
In the pharmaceutical industry, Hydrochloric Acid also regulates pH and is responsible for the chemical synthesis of active ingredients in drugs. Hydrochloric Acid is also used in the tanning industry to pre-treat leather and degrease its surface.
Hydrochloric Acid in the food industry
Hydrochloric Acid is listed in the food industry under the symbol E507. It is an acidity regulator, which means that its main function is to change or maintain pH. Hydrochloric Acid is mainly used in breweries and confectionery, but is also commonly found in the composition of products such as cottage cheese and homogenized cheese, spice blends, syrup and baby food.
In beer production, Hydrochloric Acid lowers the pH of the water so that the brewing process is correct and the beverage has the right taste. In the confectionery industry, on the other hand, Hydrochloric Acid is used in the production of food coloring, Gelatin and invert sugar.
The Hydrochloric Acid used in the production of food products has a low concentration, so it is completely safe for health.
Hydrochloric Acid in the pharmaceutical industry
Hydrochloric Acid is also used in the pharmaceutical industry. It is used for the chemical synthesis of active ingredients in various drugs, such as ascorbic acid and para-aminobenzoic acid.
In addition, Hydrochloric Acid is a pH regulator in eye moisturizing drops. Thanks to its action, the product is safe for health and does not irritate the cornea.
Why Foodcom?
Our great team of Sales Support will help our Traders conduct the contract and business deals in a smooth and efficient way to ensure the best quality service to all our Business Partners. Our logistics team will take care of transportation and the financial department will be responsible for all matters connected with the financial part of the deal. Do not hesitate! Contact us.
