Neutralization of Dilute Hydrochloric Acid Waste

Purpose: The objective of this procedure is to neutralize hydrochloric acid waste safely in order to
minimize the amount of hazardous waste generated

Chemicals:
1. Hydrochloric acid waste: 33% HCl acid, keep dilute with additional water to get low concentration
that will help for complete neutralization

2. Sodium bicarbonate NaHCO3: aka. Baking soda, sodium bicarbonate was chosen as the cheapest
chemical available for acid neutralization.

NaHCO3 + HCl NaCl + H2CO3 ; H2CO3 H2O +CO2

Or use Calcium carbonate CaCO3 + 2HCl CaCl2 + H2O+ CO2

Move the item with hydrochloric acid outside, or to a well-ventilated area, to avoid breathing fumes.
Slowly pour the sodium bicarbonate/CaCO3 into the acid and let react. Pour 5.5 lbs. baking soda in the
bucket per 1 gallon of hydrochloric acid used on the item. Add water to the bucket at a ratio of 1 part
baking soda to 10 parts water. Add the baking soda solution slowly to the item with hydrochloric acid,
pouring no more than 1/2 gallon at a time. Wait five minutes between each 1/2 gallon pour until you run
out of the water and baking soda solution.

Test to ensure the acid has been neutralized. Mix a small amount of baking soda no more than 3 tbsp. to
1/2 cup water in the bucket. Gently pour the baking soda on the product that had hydrochloric acid on it. If
you notice a fizzing reaction after pouring the water and baking soda solution, pour more baking soda and
water solution on the item to neutralize the hydrochloric acid. If there is no reaction, the hydrochloric acid
has been successfully neutralized and the item can be handled safely.
Warning
Do not touch the hydrochloric acid with your hands; it will burn your skin. If you get hydrochloric acid on
your skin, pour baking soda on it immediately

Process Completion: Completion is determined by a pH of > 6 on the pH meter of an aliquot of the

solution. Visually, when the sodium bicarbonate is added and bubbles no longer rise (it fizzes flat and
quickly), the pH is likely in the 5.5-6.5 range. At this point, check the pH to ensure that it is in the 6-8
range.

Process Waste Disposition: Neutralized waste is primarily water and dissolved sodium chloride or
Calcium chloride (see chemical equation above) and will be disposed of down the drain. It is no longer
hazardous.

Precautions / Safety Equipment / Personal Protective Equipment: Standard precautions will be taken
since this process involves a strong acid. Safety goggles must be worn when moving the acid from the
waste accumulation area to the pit lined HDPE or FRB. Wear gloves, goggles, lab coat, long pants, close-
toed shoes. Warn others in working space.

Put on rubber gloves and safety goggles to protect your hands and eyes from the acid.