Nitric Acid

MSDS Name: Nitric acid 20-70%

Synonym: Nitric Acid, Azotic acid, Engraver’s acid, Aqua fortis.

Composition, Information On Ingredients

Hazard Symbols: C

Risk Phrases: 35

Physical And Chemical Properties

Physical State: Liquid

Color: clear to yellow

Odor: strong odor – acrid odor – suffocating odor

pH: 1.0 (0.1M soln)

Vapor Pressure: 7.1 mm Hg @ 20 deg C (70% acid)

Viscosity: 0.761 cps @ 25 deg C

Boiling Point: 86 deg C

Freezing/Melting Point: -42 deg C

Solubility in water: Soluble in water.

Specific Gravity/Density: 1.4

Molecular Formula: HNO3

Molecular Weight: 63.01

Handling and Storage

Handling:

Wash thoroughly after handling. Remove contaminated clothing and wash it before reuse. Do not breathe dust, vapor, mist, or gas. Do not get in the eyes, on the skin, or on clothing. Keep the container tightly closed.

Avoid contact with clothing and other combustible materials. Discard contaminated shoes. Do not use a metal spatula or other metal items. Use only with adequate ventilation or respiratory protection.

Storage:

Do not store near combustible materials. Do not store in direct sunlight. Keep the container closed when not in use. Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from incompatible substances.

Keep away from metals. Store away from alkalies. Separate from organic materials. Inspect periodically for damage or evidence of leaks or corrosion.

Stability and Reactivity

Chemical Stability:

Stable. Decomposes when in contact with air, light, or organic matter. The yellow color is due to the release of nitrogen dioxide on exposure to light.

Conditions to Avoid:

High temperatures, light, confined spaces.

Incompatibilities with Other Materials:

Metals, reducing agents, strong bases, acetic acid, alcohols, acetone, aniline, hydrogen sulfide, metal powders, carbides, aldehydes, organic solvents, combustible materials, chromic acid, flammable liquids, cyanides, sulfides, Incompatible with many substances.

Hazardous Decomposition Products:

Nitrogen oxides.

Hazardous Polymerization: Has not been reported.