Inorganic Acid Neutralization Procedures
These procedures are suitable for the neutralization of hydrochloric, hydrobromic, phosphoric, sulfuric, and nitric (<50%) acids.
| Conduct all procedures in a chemical fume hood. |
| Wear appropriate PPE: · Eye goggles · Nitrile rubber gloves · Laboratory coat · Face shield (optional but recommended) |
| | |
| 1 | Wearing the appropriate PPE and working in a fume hood, dilute the acid with cold water to achieve at least a 1:10 dilution of acid to water. Always add acid to water. Note: depending on the container size available, the acid may need to be neutralized in batches to achieve the desire 1:10 dilution ratio. |
| 2 | Slowly add sodium carbonate or calcium carbonate until the pH is between 5 and 10. |
| 3 | Allow any solids to settle or filter the solution in preparation for the next process |
| 4 | Pour remaining liquids down the drain flushing with copious ammounts of water. (be sure to note on your drain log) |
| 5 | Allow the solid residue to dry and package it for disposal in the normal refuse. |
If you have any questions please contact EHS at 328-6166.
