Tetrafluoroboric acid

Tetrafluoroboric acid (CAS 16872-11-0), commonly referenced by its formula HBF4, is a strong inorganic acid supplied primarily as an aqueous solution.

Where is Tetrafluoroboric acid used?

• Metal finishing: primary electrolyte acid for tin and lead
• Tin-lead alloy plating baths: maintains bath stability and deposit quality
• Electronics: PCB surface treatment and flux formulations to prepare metal surfaces
• Catalyst in polymer and resin production: promotes condensation and cyclization reactions where conventional mineral acids are unsuitable
• Mining and metals processing: pickling and etching to selectively remove oxides from reactive metal surfaces
• It functions as a catalyst and electrolyte component.

Commercial specifications

• 48–50% concentration is the most commercially standard grade
• Technical grade is the predominant specification at industrial scale
• High-purity electronic grade for semiconductor and precision plating applications
• Bulk supply in drums and IBC containers; smaller packaging for laboratory and specialty use