How to properly store alkaline and acidic cleaning agents?

Proper storage of alkaline and acidic cleaning agents requires consideration of their chemical properties, safety, and environmental factors. The following are specific storage methods:

Alkaline Cleaning Agents

Choose appropriate packaging: Use alkali-resistant plastic, glass, or metal containers (such as stainless steel) to store alkaline cleaning agents. Ensure the containers are well-sealed to prevent leakage and the absorption of carbon dioxide and other acidic gases from the air, which can cause deterioration.

Control storage temperature: Generally store in a cool, dry place, with a temperature maintained between 5℃ and 35℃. Avoid high temperatures, as high temperatures may accelerate the volatilization of alkaline substances or cause chemical reactions among the components of the cleaning agent; also prevent freezing at low temperatures, to avoid affecting the performance of the cleaning agent.

Avoid mixing with acidic substances: Alkaline cleaning agents will undergo a neutralization reaction with acidic substances, so they must be stored separately from acidic cleaning agents and acidic substances. It is best to store them in different areas or cabinets to prevent accidents caused by accidental mixing.

Prevent moisture: Alkaline substances easily absorb moisture from the air and deliquesce, so the storage environment must be kept dry. If the cleaning agent becomes damp, it may cause its concentration to decrease, affecting the cleaning effect.

Acidic Cleaning Agents

Use corrosion-resistant containers: Select appropriate storage containers according to the type of acidic cleaning agent. For example, strong acids such as hydrochloric acid and sulfuric acid are generally stored in containers made of corrosion-resistant materials such as glass, ceramic, or polytetrafluoroethylene; for some weak acids, acid-resistant plastic containers can be used. Containers must have good sealing to prevent acid volatilization and leakage.

Low-temperature storage: Acidic cleaning agents should generally be stored in a low-temperature environment, generally not exceeding 30℃, and should be protected from direct sunlight and high-temperature locations. High temperatures will increase the volatility of the acid, increasing the production of acid mist, and may also accelerate the reaction of the acid with the container or other substances, reducing the stability of the cleaning agent.

Classify storage: Different types of acidic cleaning agents should be stored separately to avoid mixing. For example, oxidizing acids (such as nitric acid) and reducing acids (such as hydrochloric acid and hydrofluoric acid) cannot be stored together, otherwise a violent redox reaction may occur, causing danger. At the same time, acidic cleaning agents should also be stored separately from alkaline substances, flammable materials, and organic substances to prevent chemical reactions from causing fires or explosions.

Pay attention to ventilation: The place where acidic cleaning agents are stored should be well-ventilated to exhaust volatile acidic gases, reduce the concentration of acid mist in the air, and reduce harm to the environment and human body. Ventilation equipment, such as exhaust fans, can be installed to ensure air circulation indoors.

For both alkaline and acidic cleaning agents, clear warning signs should be placed in the storage area, indicating their properties, hazard categories, and emergency handling methods. Regularly check storage containers for leaks, corrosion, etc., and address any problems promptly.