Mining operations use muric acid to treat, extract and purify ore --- particularly molybdenum and gold. The acid is also used to process zirconium and uranium. Also, processing plants use the acid to create tungstic acid, used for producing tungsten metal and chemicals.
Food manufacturing companies use the acid for processing a variety of foodstuffs. For example, the acid is used in the production of corn syrups for soft drinks, as 70 to 75 percent of demand for high-fructose corn syrup comes from soft drink manufacturers. Companies also use the acid to produce vegetable protein, soy sauce and artificial sweeteners.
Steel manufacturers need hydrochloric acid to pickle steel, a process that removes impurities from the metal by stripping them away with the acid. Also, companies use the acid to prepare the metal for galvanizing and soldering.
Muric acid removes rust and scale from oil wells, helps improve the flow of crude oil and drives down operation and maintenance costs. Injected into the rock formation, the acid dissolves a portion of the carbonate or limestone formations, creating a pore structure to improve the flow of oil.
Household cleaning product manufacturers put hydrochloric acid in some of their products for heavy-duty projects such as cleaning toilets or drains. The acid is powerful enough to strip off even the most stubborn stains. It also corrodes skin; always wear gloves when cleaning with it.