Fume hoods used in laboratories where intense acids are used must be designed to provide high resistance to such corrosive substances. These hoods must provide long-term durability and effective operation while ensuring the safety of users. Here are the features that fume hoods where intense acids are used must have

Ventilation System

• High-Performance Aspirator:

o It should provide a strong air flow to quickly discharge harmful acid vapors.

• Acid Vapor Resistant Air Ducts:

o Polypropylene or PTFE coated air ducts should be preferred.

• Active Carbon Filter (Optional):

o It can be used to minimize the environmental damage of exhausted gases.

Accessories Resistant to Acid Vapors

• Ventilation Louvers and Fans:

o It should be made of materials resistant to acid vapors (e.g. PVC or PTFE).

• Faucet and Electrical Installation:

o Equipment resistant to corrosive substances and with appropriate insulation should be used.

Work Surface and Countertop

• Material:

o The work surface should be made of epoxy resin, antacid compact laminate, industrial ceramic, or polypropylene. These surfaces are resistant to acid splashes and spills.

• Sloping Surfaces:

o They should be designed so that spilled acids can be collected and easily cleaned.

Safety Features

• Negative Pressure:

o By creating negative pressure inside the fume hood, harmful vapors are prevented from leaking out.

• Transparent Safety Panel:

o There should be a panel made of chemically resistant glass or polycarbonate material that protects laboratory personnel.

• Acid Spill Tray:

o A resistant tray should be placed at the bottom to collect acid leaks.

• Emergency Stop Button (optional):

o There should be a safety button to turn off the electrical or ventilation system.

Compliance with Environmental and Work Safety Regulations

• Ventilation and Gas Evacuation:

o It should be able to safely discharge acid vapors in accordance with international standards (for example, OSHA or EN 14175 standards).

• User Protection:

o Must be designed to minimize worker exposure to chemicals.