A method for the simultaneous detection of hydrogen fluoride and fluorine.

A relatively simple and rapid method for detecting hydrogen fluoride and elemental fluorine is described. A solution containing sodium bicarbonate and potassium bromide is treated with the gas. Hydrogen fluoride immediately liberates carbon dioxide from the bicarbonate; elemental fluorine immediately colours the solution and then causes the evolution of oxygen, hydrogen peroxide and hydrogen fluoride. A mixture of fluorine and hydrogen fluoride simultaneously colours the solution and evolves carbon dioxide.