Overview

Spirits of Salts is the common trade name for hydrochloric acid, a strong acidic solution used across construction for cleaning masonry and preparing concrete. It dissolves cement slurry, mortar residue, tile adhesive, grout and scale, and it etches smooth concrete so that coatings and overlays get a surface they can grip.

This product is supplied in 5 litre and 20 litre containers, priced per size. It is the same material sold as muriatic acid, and it is a standard tool for concreters, bricklayers and anyone finishing or restoring concrete surfaces.

Key Features

• Strong hydrochloric acid solution for heavy cleaning and etching
• Removes cement slurry, mortar excess, tile adhesive, grout and scale
• Etches smooth or power-trowelled concrete before coating
• Cleans brick, block and stone surfaces
• Useful for lowering pH in pools and water systems
• Available in 5L and 20L sizes for small and large jobs

Specifications

• Product: hydrochloric acid (HCl) solution
• Pack sizes: 5L and 20L
• Appearance: clear to slightly yellow liquid with a sharp odour
• Use: masonry cleaning, concrete etching, descaling
• Safety: corrosive, wear gloves, goggles and protective clothing

Applications

• Cleaning cement smears off brick, block and stone
• Etching a concrete driveway or floor before sealing
• Removing efflorescence and scale from masonry
• Preparing concrete before an overlay or coating
• Cleaning patios and brick pavers

What You Need to Complete the Job

Always add acid to water, never the reverse, and wear acid-resistant gloves, goggles and protective clothing. Apply the dilute solution to the surface, let it work, then rinse thoroughly with clean water. For concrete prep work, etch the surface first, rinse well, then seal with a concrete sealer such as the AuSeal 20L Clear EC25. A larger 15 litre drum is available as the Hydrochloric Acid 15L. More cleaning and concreting supplies are in the Concreting range.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Spirits of Salts and Hydrochloric Acid?

There is no difference in the active ingredient. Spirits of Salts is the traditional trade name for hydrochloric acid, and both names are used for the same acidic cleaning solution. The 5L and 20L Spirits of Salts and the separate 15L hydrochloric acid listing are the same type of product in different container sizes.

Can I use it to clean a concrete driveway?

Yes, for removing cement smears, efflorescence and surface scale. Dilute the acid with water, wet the surface first, apply the solution, and rinse it off thoroughly. Do not let it dry on the surface, and protect surrounding vegetation and metal from splashes.

Do I need to dilute it before use?

Yes for most jobs. Hydrochloric acid is strong straight from the container, and full strength use can damage surfaces and produce strong fumes. Dilute it with water in the ratio the job needs, always adding acid to water, and test on a small area first.

What safety gear do I need?

Acid-resistant gloves, safety goggles and protective clothing, plus good ventilation or a respirator in enclosed spaces. Keep a supply of clean water and sodium bicarbonate nearby for splashes and spills. Store the container upright, sealed, and out of reach of children.