Hydrochloric acid (HCl) is a strong mineral acid with very high corrosivity, widely used in industrial applications ranging from steel pickling and pH control to chloride production and many other processes. What is sold in the market as hydrochloric acid is typically an aqueous solution of hydrogen chloride, commonly known in the general market as muriatic acid.
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Formula | HCl (aqueous solution) |
| Common market concentrations | 30–33% industrial grade / 35–37% higher quality grades |
| Key risks | High corrosivity + irritating vapors |
| Essential documents | COA + MSDS |
What Is Hydrochloric Acid and Is It Different from “HCl”?
In practice, hydrochloric acid and HCl refer to the same product in the market: an aqueous solution of hydrogen chloride gas. In scientific literature, the term “Hydrochloric Acid” is most common, while in general trade it may also be called muriatic acid.
Other Names for Hydrochloric Acid
Muriatic acid, Hydrochloric Acid, Hydrogen Chloride, HCl, Muriatic Acid (in some markets).
Physical and Chemical Properties (Key Specifications)
Hydrochloric acid is typically a clear liquid (colorless to pale yellow depending on purity) with a sharp odor. Its vapors can irritate the respiratory system; therefore, ventilation and HSE management are critical in industrial use.
| Parameter | Value / Description |
|---|---|
| Chemical formula | HCl (aqueous solution) |
| Appearance | Clear liquid, colorless to pale yellow (depending on purity), sharp odor |
| Molar mass | 36.46 g/mol |
| Density (approx.) | Depends on concentration; typically ~1.15–1.20 g/cm³ for industrial solutions |
| pH | Strongly acidic (can be close to 0–2 at industrial concentrations) |
Hydrochloric Acid COA – What Should You Check?
If your application involves metal processing, industrial water treatment, chloride production, or sensitive chemical processes, obtain the COA before purchasing. Even small variations in impurities can affect corrosion, scaling, odor, and process behavior. For bulk procurement, batch consistency is a real operational advantage.
| COA Parameter | Why It Matters | Risk if Weak |
|---|---|---|
| % HCl (actual concentration) | Basis for dosing, pricing, and consumption | Higher consumption, hidden costs, process instability |
| Density @ 20°C | Quick indicator of real concentration | Mismatch between claimed and actual strength |
| Iron (Fe) | Affects color, deposits, and surface quality in pickling | Discoloration, contamination, increased corrosion |
| Sulfates / ionic impurities | Controls salt-related impurities and scaling tendencies | Scaling, quality loss, injector issues |
| Free chlorine (if reported) | Safety, odor, reactivity | Stronger vapors, corrosion and safety risks |
Industrial Applications of Hydrochloric Acid (HCl)
1) Steel Pickling and Rust Removal
Removal of oxides and rust from steel and iron surfaces prior to plating, painting, galvanizing, or forming. In this application, actual concentration and impurity control directly affect surface quality and scrap rates.
2) Production of Chloride Salts and Inorganic Compounds
A base raw material for producing a wide range of chlorides (such as calcium chloride and other chloride salts). Impurity control is essential to avoid contamination of the final product.
3) pH Control in Water, Wastewater, and Industrial Processes
Used in pH dosing systems and industrial pipelines. Proper packaging selection (IBC, tanker, drums) and safe injection systems are critical.
4) Mining, Metallurgy, and Equipment Cleaning
Used in certain mineral processing circuits and equipment cleaning due to strong dissolving capability. Material compatibility and corrosion control are vital.
5) Oil & Gas (Cleaning and Field Applications)
Used in selected field operations to dissolve mineral deposits and improve flow. These applications require strict safety control, proper transport, and equipment compatibility.
6) General (Diluted) Applications
Diluted muriatic acid is used for descaling and surface cleaning. Due to strong vapors and corrosivity, it must be used with caution and adequate ventilation.
10 Hydrochloric Acid (HCl) Producing Plants & Petrochemical Complexes in Iran
Identifying the actual producer is critical for industrial buyers because it impacts pricing, COA consistency, direct purchasing options, and export readiness.
| No. | Plant / Petrochemical Complex |
|---|---|
| 1 | Nirochlor |
| 2 | Pars Kimia Chlor Petrochemical |
| 3 | Urmia Petrochemical |
| 4 | Chlor Pars |
| 5 | Karun Petrochemical |
| 6 | Shazand Arak Petrochemical |
| 7 | Abadan Petrochemical |
| 8 | Bandar Imam Khomeini Petrochemical |
| 9 | Razi Petrochemical |
| 10 | Ghadir Petrochemical |
Note: In some complexes, hydrochloric acid is a by-product. Availability, delivery mode, and supply stability may depend on operational conditions. For bulk purchases, agree on lead time, transport method, and COA requirements per shipment.
Hydrochloric Acid Packaging (Jerrycan, Drum, IBC, Tanker)
Packaging selection affects safety, logistics cost, unloading method, and hidden operational risks (leaks, corrosion, fittings).
| Packaging Type | Typical Capacity | Suitable For | Key Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jerrycan | 4–5–20 L | Small / workshop use | Leak control, proper sealing, ventilated storage |
| HDPE Drum | 200–220 L | Medium industrial use | Palletizing and secure transport |
| IBC | 1000 L | Continuous dosing / monthly use | Valve compatibility and controlled unloading |
| Tanker / Bulk | Tonnage | Large-scale and projects | Proper tanker + pump/hoses + safe unloading SOP |
Storage Tanks & Material Compatibility
Hydrochloric acid can corrode many metals; therefore, tank and piping selection must be engineered according to concentration, temperature, and environment.
- Polyethylene (PE/HDPE): Common, economical, suitable for many storage and transfer scenarios.
- FRP: Suitable for special conditions and large volumes; liner quality is critical.
- Metals / alloys: Only for specific cases with full compatibility analysis.
Hazards and Safety Notes (MSDS – Practical Summary)
Hydrochloric acid is highly corrosive, and its vapors can irritate the respiratory system. For industrial purchases, COA alone is not sufficient—request MSDS and a safe unloading procedure from the supplier.
- Skin contact: Chemical burns → acid-resistant gloves, apron, emergency shower.
- Eye contact: Serious injury risk → goggles/face shield, eyewash station.
- Inhalation: Severe irritation → ventilation, suitable respirators.
- Incompatibilities: Separate from strong bases and incompatible materials.
- Leaks/corrosion: Spill kits, secondary containment, trained personnel.
This page does not replace an official MSDS. Always follow site-specific HSE instructions.
Hydrochloric Acid Price – What Determines the Market Price?
Daily hydrochloric acid prices typically depend on concentration, order volume, packaging type, transport cost, and unloading conditions. For professional procurement, compare complete offers, not just a single price figure.
Buy, Sell, Quote Requests & Export via Shimico
If your goal is lower risk purchasing, stable supply, or preparing for export, the best approach is to define your specifications clearly and receive multiple comparable offers. Shimico is a specialized chemical platform where suppliers can list products, and buyers can purchase, sell, or request price quotations.
In bulk transactions, the real value is not just a lower price—it is actual concentration, batch consistency, COA/MSDS, standard packaging, and safe logistics. For export, documentation and packaging standards become even more critical.
Frequently Asked Questions (Hydrochloric Acid – HCl)
What concentration is industrial hydrochloric acid, and which should I choose?
In Iran, industrial hydrochloric acid is commonly supplied at 30–33%, suitable for most applications. For more sensitive processes or reduced effective consumption, 35–37% may be preferable, provided equipment compatibility and safety requirements are met.
How does COA help in industrial purchasing?
COA verifies actual concentration and key impurities, enabling accurate dosing, realistic cost comparison, and lower operational risk (corrosion, scaling, unstable process behavior).
Which packaging is the most economical?
For continuous or bulk use, IBC or tanker is typically more economical. For medium volumes, HDPE drums are common. For smaller usage, jerrycans are easier to handle and store.
Is hydrochloric acid the same as muriatic acid?
In general usage, yes. Differences usually relate to concentration, purity, and packaging, which must be clearly specified for industrial use.
What information should I provide when requesting a price?
Provide: concentration, application, quantity, packaging, delivery location, required documents (COA/MSDS), and delivery timeline. This makes quotes accurate and truly comparable.