What are the characteristics or properties of nitric acid?
When pure, nitric acid is colorless, but it tends to acquire a yellow cast as a result of the accumulation of oxides. When a solution contains 70% of the substance, it is generally referred to as Fuming Nitric Acid. It is also highly corrosive and it fumes in moist air. It is a strong oxidizing agent and its reactions with compounds like carbides, cyanides, and metallic powders can be explosive. It is miscible with water.
Are there other names for the substance?
Yes, there are. It is also referred to as aqua fortis and spirit of nitre. It is also available under other names such as Concentrated Nitric Acid, Nitric Acid Concentrated, Conc Nitric, Conc Nitric Acid and HNO3.
How is it created?
The creation of a very pure nitric acid generally involves distillation with sulfuric acid. It is because this kind of acid forms an azeotrope with water, the composition of which is 68% nitric acid and 32% water. Usually, commercial grade solutions are between 52% and 68% nitric acid. Moreover, the commercial production of the substance was developed in 1902 by Wilhelm Ostwald, a German chemist. This process is known as the Ostwald process.
What are its uses?
Two of the most common known uses of the substance is in the manufacture of fertilizers such as ammonium nitrate as well as the manufacture of explosives such as trinitroluene (T.N.T.) and nitro glycerine. It also used in the jewelry industry. It is for the reason that when it is mixed with hydrochloric acid, aqua regia is formed. Aqua regia is a reagent that has the capability to dissolve metals like gold and platinum. Other industries where the substance is used include the printing industry for photoengraving, metal cleaning and etching, electroplating, electrical circuit board making, and wet chemical etching.
What are its health implications?
The substance is strong and toxic and it can cause severe burns, ulcers, blisters, and permanent scarring when it comes into contact with the skin. Accidental or intentional swallowing of the substance can cause death, besides other results such as burns to the mouth, throat, and stomach. Moreover, it can be inhaled as a vapor which can result to dryness of the throat and nasal passages, shortness of breath, cough, chest pain, and breathing difficulties. If it comes into contact with the eyes, it can cause permanent injury and blindness, depending on the length of exposure.
Moreover, there are certain first aid measures that can be used if it is either inhaled, ingested, or comes into contact with the skin or eyes. If it is inhaled, the victim should be removed to a place where there is fresh air. If the victim's breathing is difficult then give oxygen. When it is ingested, one thing that should be remembered is to never induce vomiting. Instead, give the victim a good amount of water or milk. But do not give the victim anything by mouth if he or she is unconscious.
If the substance comes into contact with the skin, quickly flush the affected part of the skin with a large amount of water for at least 15 minutes. Also, remove the victim's contaminated pieces of clothing. If it is eye contact, flush the affected eye with plenty of water, again, for 15 minutes. While doing this, occasionally lift lower and upper eyelids.
What is its proper storage and use?
Nitric acid must be stored in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area. It must also be kept out of direct sunlight. When making use of it, wear safety glasses and gloves to prevent it from coming into contact with your skin and eyes.
Jo is a writer for 'ReAgent Chemical Services Ltd' (http://www.reagent.co.uk), a reputable UK stationed chemical manufacturer that manufactures, carries and distributes an enormous selection of premium chemicals. If your firm is searching for superior quality chemical product for instance Nitric Acid or has other industrial chemical needs for purposes like chemical mixture, analytical purposes and cleaning then have a look at ReAgent Chemical Services Ltd.
