Nitric acid

Nitric acid is a highly corrosive inorganic acid with the chemical formula HNO3 and CAS number 7697-37-2. It is a strong mineral acid that appears as a colorless to yellow liquid with a characteristic pungent odor. With a molecular weight of 63.013 g/mol, nitric acid is classified as a dangerous substance due to its oxidizing, toxic, and corrosive properties, requiring careful handling in industrial applications.

Nitric acid is a colorless to pale yellow liquid at room temperature with a sharp, suffocating odor. It is highly miscible with water in all proportions and has strong oxidizing properties. The acid is hygroscopic, meaning it readily absorbs moisture from air, and can release toxic nitrogen oxide vapors. Its density varies with concentration, and it has a high boiling point that increases with concentration.

Nitric acid is primarily used in the production of fertilizers, particularly ammonium nitrate, accounting for about 80% of its consumption. It serves as a key raw material in explosives manufacturing, metal processing for pickling and etching, and in the production of nitrate salts. The chemical industry uses it for synthesizing various organic nitro compounds, dyes, and pharmaceuticals, making it essential for numerous industrial processes.

Nitric acid requires strict safety measures due to its corrosive and toxic nature. Personnel must wear acid-resistant gloves, safety goggles, face shields, and chemical-resistant clothing. Work should be conducted in well-ventilated areas or under fume hoods to prevent inhalation of vapors. Avoid contact with organic materials, metals, and bases to prevent violent reactions. Emergency eyewash stations and safety showers must be readily accessible.

Nitric acid must be stored in corrosion-resistant containers made of glass, certain plastics, or stainless steel in cool, dry, well-ventilated areas away from direct sunlight. Keep containers tightly sealed and separate from incompatible materials like organic compounds, metals, alkalis, and reducing agents. Storage areas should have secondary containment, proper ventilation systems, and be equipped with spill cleanup materials specifically designed for acids.

Immediate action is crucial for nitric acid exposure. For skin contact, remove contaminated clothing and flush the affected area with large amounts of water for at least 15 minutes. In case of eye contact, rinse immediately with water for at least 15 minutes while holding eyelids open. If inhaled, move the person to fresh air immediately. For ingestion, do not induce vomiting and seek immediate medical attention in all cases.

Nitric acid disposal must comply with local environmental regulations as it is classified as hazardous waste. Small quantities can be neutralized carefully with sodium bicarbonate or lime under controlled conditions, but this should only be done by trained personnel. Large quantities require professional hazardous waste disposal services. Never pour nitric acid down drains or into the environment, and always consult local authorities for specific disposal requirements.

Nitric acid is classified under ADR as Class 8 (corrosive substances), Packing Group I, indicating high danger level. Transportation requires UN-approved packaging, proper labeling with GHS pictograms (GHS03, GHS06, GHS05), and appropriate shipping documentation. Vehicles must carry emergency equipment and drivers need hazardous materials certification. The transport must comply with ADR regulations for route planning, vehicle specifications, and emergency response procedures.

Nitric acid is subject to extensive European regulations including REACH registration, CLP classification requirements, and specific industrial emission directives. It is classified as Oxidizing Liquid 3, Acute Toxicity 3, and Skin Corrosion 1A under CLP regulation. While not currently listed as SVHC, its use is regulated under various sectoral legislation including waste management, transport, and occupational safety directives that mandate specific handling and reporting requirements.

Nitric acid is available through OYSI, a European distributor specializing in technical chemicals for industrial applications. OYSI provides nitric acid in various concentrations and packaging sizes to meet different industrial requirements across Europe. As a professional chemical distributor, OYSI ensures compliance with all relevant regulations, proper documentation, and technical support for customers requiring this essential industrial chemical for their manufacturing processes.