Perchloric acid

Synonyms

Perchloric acid, >50% but not >72% acid, by mass; Perchloric acid, >72% acid by mass; Perchloric acid, not >50% acid, by mass; [ChemIDplus] Hydronium perchlorate; [ICSC] Acide perchlorique, contenant plus de 50% mais au maximum 72% d'acide (French DOT); Dioxonium perchlorate solution; Perchloric acid solution; [CAMEO] UN1873; UN1802 (with not more than 50% acid)

Category

Oxidizers

Description

Colorless, odorless oily liquid; [HSDB] Highly hygroscopic; [Merck Index]

Sources/Uses

Used as an oxidizer in analytical chemistry; its salts are used in explosives and electroplating baths; [Merck Index] Used as a catalyst, to make various esters, and in electrolytic bathes for lead deposition; [HSDB]

Comments

Highly corrosive to skin; [Quick CPC] High inhalation exposure can cause pneumonitis and pulmonary edema; Causes liver injury in high-dose animal studies; [HSDB] Evolves heat when mixed with water--may explode; [Merck Index] A strong oxidant--a fire and explosion hazard; Corrosive to skin, eyes, and respiratory tract; Inhalation may cause pulmonary edema; [ICSC]

Biomedical References

6.8 mm Hg

Explanatory Notes

The Guide from the Emergency Response Guidebook is for "Perchloric acid, with more than 50% but not more than 72% acid."

will not burn

Yes

Hepatoxic (a) from occupational exposure (secondary effect) or (b) in animal studies or in humans after ingestion

Skin burns

Processes

Industrial Processes with risk of exposure:

• Electroplating