AR strippers that come in powdered crystals are Hydrogen fluoride that converts immediately into 100% hydrofluoric acid upon contact with moisture.

Hydrofluoric acid is a solution of hydrogen fluoride powder dissolved in water. Together with hydrogen fluoride, hydrofluoric acid is a valued source of fluorine, being the precursor to numerous pharmaceuticals, diverse polymers (e.g. Teflon), and most other synthetic materials that contain fluorine. Hydrofluoric acid is best known to the public for its ability to dissolve glass by reacting with SiO2, the major component of most glasses.

This dissolution process can be described as follows:

SiO_2(s) + 4HF_(aq) → SiF_4(g) + 2H₂O_(l)

SiO_2(s) + 6HF_(aq) → H₂[SiF₆]_(aq) + 2H₂O_(l)

Because of its high reactivity toward glass, hydrofluoric acid is typically stored in polyethylene or Teflon containers. It is also unique in its ability to dissolve many metal and semimetal oxides. It is corrosive, as explained below.

Danger:
Hydrofluoric acid is corrosive and a contact poison. It should be handled with extreme care, beyond that accorded to other mineral acids, in part because of its low dissociation constant, which allows HF to penetrate tissue more quickly. Symptoms of exposure to hydrofluoric acid may not be immediately evident. HF interferes with nerve function and burns may not initially be painful. Accidental exposures can go unnoticed, delaying treatment and increasing the extent and seriousness of the injury.[2] HF is known to etch bone, and since it penetrates the skin it essentially breaks the person's bones without destroying the skin.[1] Hydrogen fluoride is released upon combustion of fluorine-containing compounds such as products containing Viton and Teflon parts. Hydrogen fluoride converts immediately to hydrofluoric acid upon contact with moisture.

How to reduce and avoid immediate danger of HF injuries.................

By using a pre-mixed AR Stripper that contains the absolute minimum needed of hydrofluoric acid but still does the job.

We have developed a stripper that contains only 4.5% of the volume and a total of 11.5% acid mix combined with solvents that will remove AR coatings in 5-10 seconds and will not induce above described injuries if accidentally going on skin.

Why invite trouble of accidental injuries if there are products available with a minimal danger factor.

 

HF source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hydrofluoric_acid

Also check our website:  http://arcoatings.com

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OMS, 177108 Canada Inc.
97 Columbus
Pointe Claire, Québec
Canada
H9R 4K3

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