by Katsumori Matsuoka, special to C&EN
From the Chemical & Engineering News: A graduate student at Hokkaido University has died after severe exposure to hydrofluoric acid (HF) during an experiment in a science faculty building, the university announced Aug. 27. Two students who attempted to rescue the victim sustained minor injuries but are in stable condition.
HF is uniquely hazardous because of its ability to penetrate skin with a delayed onset of pain. The fluoride ion binds with systemic calcium and can cause severe tissue destruction or fatal cardiac arrest.
This from a small amount in a university lab. Think about a massive release of 50,000 lbs can do to a city like ours.
Torrance Refinery Action Alliance 