Hydrogen Chloride Detection

Hydrogen chloride is a compound with the formula HCl. At room temperature, it is a colourless gas which forms white fumes of hydrochloric acid upon contact with atmospheric humidity. Hydrogen chloride gas and hydrochloric acid are extremely important in technology and industry.

 

Because of its acidic nature, hydrogen chloride is a corrosive gas, particularly in the presence of any moisture. Inhalation of the fumes can cause coughing, choking, inflammation of the nose, throat and, in severe cases, pulmonary oedema, circulatory system failure and death. Skin contact can cause redness, pain, and severe skin burns.

 

Hydrogen chloride isl largely used in the production of hydrochloric acid. It is also an important reagent in other industrial chemical transformations, such as the hydrochlorination of rubber and production of vinyl and alkyl chlorides.