Used primarily in the semiconductor industry for etching silicon wafers due to its ability to dissolve glass and silicon compounds. Widely applied in petroleum refining to catalyze alkylation processes for high-octane fuel production. Employed in metal cleaning and pickling to remove oxides and scale from stainless steel and other alloys. Common in glass etching for decorative purposes and laboratory ware marking. Utilized in the synthesis of fluorocarbons and other fluorinated compounds. Also found in some household rust removers and concrete cleaners, though its use is limited due to high toxicity and corrosion risks. Requires strict safety measures because it can cause severe burns and systemic poisoning through skin absorption.