What types of acid are used to perform acid hydrolysis?
There is no specific type of acid that must be used for any of the processes used to treat PFPR wastewaters, including acid hydrolysis. The only requirement is that the acid be capable of achieving the desired pH. In general, any strong acid, such as sulfuric, hydrochloric, or nitric acid, could be used. During EPA treatability studies on PFPR wastewaters, sulfuric acid was used to lower the pH of wastewaters for emulsion breaking and neutralization after hydrolysis at high (alkaline) pH. Facilities should also be aware that toxic or hazardous components may be generated through the addition of acid to PFPR wastewater, so an acid should be chosen that will minimize the potential adverse health and safety risks and the generation of toxic and hazardous compounds.
