Karl

For a good approximation of the [HF] in the soluble salts, use the dissociation equilibrium for HF which is driven by the [H⁺] and salt concentration.  To one significant figure, the dissociation constant (Ka) for HF is 7E-4. Research using 19F NMR showed dissociated fluoride (likely F-H-F ^-) in several of the compounds you noted. 

With regards,

Mike

Michael N. Cooper MS, MPH, CIH

Senior Managing Scientist

Exponent / Failure Analysis Associates

149 Commonwealth Drive

Menlo Park, California  94025

mcooper**At_Symbol_Here**exponent.com

cell (408) 313-2127

office (650) 688-1760

Karl,
 
At least the ammonium fluoride (I assume you mean ammonium bifouoride), which is used in a very dilute solution as a disinfectant in home/office fish tanks, has caused fatailties in children when a concentrated solution has been ingested.  The poisoing seems to be the same as hydrogen fluoride/hydrofluoric acid poisoning, and what data are available indicate that the medical treatment should be the same.
 
Boron trifluoride (BF3) seems to act similarly to hydrogen fluoride.
 
I'd have to research the other 3 compounds you list.  Perhaps someone else on the listserve is more familiar with them.
 
Alan
Alan H. Hall, M.D.
Medical Toxicologist
ahalltoxic**At_Symbol_Here**msn.com 
 

Date: Wed, 7 Apr 2010 12:54:51 -0400
From: karl**At_Symbol_Here**KASAI-CONSULTING.COM
Subject: Re: [DCHAS-L] HF hazards
To: DCHAS-L**At_Symbol_Here**LIST.UVM.EDU