hydrogen fluoride

noun

1. a colorless corrosive gas, HF, the anhydride of hydrofluoric acid, used chiefly as a catalyst and in the fluorination of hydrocarbons.

hydrogen fluoride

noun

1. a colourless poisonous corrosive gas or liquid made by reaction between calcium fluoride and sulphuric acid: used as a fluorinating agent and catalyst. Formula: HF
2. an aqueous solution of hydrogen fluoride; hydrofluoric acid

hydrogen fluoride

1. A corrosive compound that exists as a colorless, fuming liquid or a highly soluble gas. Hydrogen fluoride is used as a reagent, catalyst, and fluorinating agent, in the refining of uranium, and in making many fluorine compounds. An aqueous solution of hydrogen fluoride is called hydrofluoric acid. Chemical formula: HF.

Word History and Origins

Origin of hydrogen fluoride¹

First recorded in 1905–10

Example Sentences

In the case of large, multiple-battery fires, they can burn for days, all the while releasing toxic gases such as hydrogen fluoride, hydrogen chloride, carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide.

From Los Angeles Times

Japan's trade ministry said it would lift export curbs to South Korea on some high-tech materials, namely fluorinated polyimides, resists and hydrogen fluoride.

From Reuters

Fire and hazmat officials checked for oxygen, carbon monoxide, hydrogen fluoride and flammable gases and found all within normal ranges, Mauser said.

From Seattle Times

He said of particular concern is the hydrogen fluoride in the water, a potent chemical that can cause burns or death at high enough concentrations.

From The Guardian

Wisconsin Public Radio reports that residents and tribal leaders expressed frustration over Husky’s plans to continue using the highly toxic chemical hydrogen fluoride as part of its refining process.

From Washington Times