Chinese Woman Dies From Organ Failure After Stepping On Acid, Nicknamed 'Bone-Dissolving Water'

A devastating case in China has brought attention to the extreme dangers of an acid commonly referred to as "bone-dissolving water" due to its highly corrosive properties, reports the South China Morning Post (SCMP).

In Hangzhou, a 52-year-old woman identified by the surname Tu lost her life to multiple organ failure just five days after accidentally stepping on an abandoned container of hydrofluoric acid while walking through a hillside area.

The fatal incident occurred when Tu came into contact with the dangerous substance in an unattended vacant lot near Xianlin Middle Road.

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Medical professionals reported that Tu experienced rapid swelling, severe electrolyte imbalance, and cascading organ failure. Despite receiving immediate medical attention, doctors indicated her survival chances were minimal from the outset. Within five days, Tu succumbed to heart and lung failure.

In a statement to The Paper, a mainland media outlet, one physician remarked, "The chances of saving her were already slim."

The report included a heartbreaking social media post from Tu's child: "I never got to see a miracle happen."

"My mum left us in a way we could not comprehend, and so quickly. I hope there are no accidents in heaven."

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During the subsequent investigation, authorities discovered and removed two additional bottles of the acid. The area has been decontaminated while investigations continue.

Police identified the person responsible as a janitor with the surname Ai, whose job responsibilities included wall cleaning. Ai had relocated from the area in 2015 but has now been detained. He potentially faces up to seven years of imprisonment for negligently releasing hazardous substances.

Hydrofluoric Acid RisksHydrofluoric acid, a colorless solution, has the capability to dissolve metals, glass, and silicon. It can inflict severe burns and cause deep tissue damage.

While widely utilized in semiconductor manufacturing and glass processing industries, this dangerous chemical remains readily available online, often sold with insufficient safety warnings.

Experts emphasize the crucial need for extreme caution and proper protective equipment when handling such highly corrosive substances. Immediate medical attention is essential following any exposure.

Representative image.