Nitric Acid 68%
Nitric Acid 68% is a strong mineral acid commonly used in industrial processes including fertilizer production, metal treatment, chemical synthesis, and explosives manufacturing. At this concentration, it is considered concentrated nitric acid and exhibits corrosive and oxidizing properties.
CAS Number: 7697-37-2
Chemical Name: Nitric Acid
Other Names: Aqua Fortis, HNO₃
Chemical Formula: HNO₃
Molecular Weight: 63.01 g/mol
Purity: 68% (by weight)
Appearance: Colorless to pale yellow liquid
Odor: Pungent, acrid
Solubility: Miscible with water
Boiling Point: ~120°C (decomposes)
Density: ~1.41 g/cm³ at 20°C
Flash Point: Non-flammable but strong oxidizer
pH: <1 (strong acid)
Vapor Pressure: ~6.6 kPa at 20°C
Application in areas:
- Fertilizer Production
- Used in manufacturing ammonium nitrate
- Explosives & Propellants
- Key ingredient in producing nitroglycerin, TNT, and nitrocellulose
- Metal Processing
- Etching, pickling, cleaning, and passivation of stainless steel and alloys
- Chemical Synthesis
- Intermediate in production of dyes, pharmaceuticals, and organic nitration reactions
- Electronics and PCB Manufacturing
- Used for etching copper and cleaning electronic components
Safety & Handling:
- Hazard Classification: Oxidizer / Corrosive (Class 8 / 5.1)
- UN Number: UN2031
GHS Classification:
- H272: May intensify fire; oxidizer
- H314: Causes severe skin burns and eye damage
- H290: May be corrosive to metals
- H331: Toxic if inhaled (concentrated vapors)
PPE Requirements:
- Acid-resistant gloves (nitrile, neoprene)
- Full face shield or splash goggles
- Acid-resistant apron or lab coat
- Respiratory protection if fumes are present
- Use under a fume hood
Storage Guidelines:
- Store in cool, well-ventilated, corrosion-resistant containers
- Keep away from organic materials, reducing agents, flammables, and metals
- Use vented, pressure-rated containers to accommodate gas release
- Avoid contact with chlorides or bases
Packaging: Drum, Pail