*HCl* = *Hydrochloric Acid*
aka *Muriatic Acid, Spirit of Salt*
It's a strong acid liquid. Very corrosive and fuming. Used a lot in industry and cleaning.
# *1. Common Forms in Nigeria*
**Form** **Concentration** **Color/Smell** **Notes**
**Industrial HCl** 30% - 37% Clear/yellow. Strong fumes Most common for industry
**Household Muriatic** 10% - 20% Clear. Pungent smell Sold as toilet/bath cleaner
**Food Grade HCl** 30% - 32% Clear. Low impurities E507. For pH control in food
# *2. Key Uses*
1. *Cleaning / Descaling*
Removes cement stains, rust, toilet scale, tiles. Dissolves calcium deposits.
Used in hotels, factories, homes in Lagos.
2. *Water Treatment & pH Control*
Lowers pH of borehole, pool, boiler water. "pH -" chemical.
3. *Industry*
Steel pickling,