Nitric Acid 40%

Product Overview

Nitric Acid 40% is a clear, colorless solution of nitric acid in water, formulated for industrial and laboratory use where a strong, rapidly available oxidizing agent is required. The solution has a typical assay of 40 wt%, with a precise specification window of 39–41 wt% as determined by acid-base titration. It exhibits a pungent, acrid odor and is highly reactive with most metals and organic substrates. The product is supplied in corrosion-resistant containers (e.g., HDPE or glass) and is suitable for downstream processing in chemical synthesis, metal pretreatment, and analytical workflows. Its density at 25°C is approximately 1.2 g/mL, and the refractive index at 20°C is around 1.335, reflecting its high purity and consistent composition as validated by ISO/ACS-relevant methods.

In addition to its oxidizing power, Nitric Acid 40% is compatible with a wide range of solvents and is miscible with water, enabling precise dilution and formulation for controlled reactivity in process streams. The product meets ACS Reagent Grade specifications, and the accompanying quality documentation (COA) includes detailed impurity profiles such as low chloride, nitrate, and heavy metal contents, ensuring suitability for sensitive applications including chemical synthesis, analytical chemistry, and materials processing. Storage in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area with appropriate corrosion-resistant containment minimizes risk of degradation and ensures long-term stability (shelf life: 24 months from manufacture date under proper storage).

Key Properties

• Appearance: Clear, colorless liquid
• Chemical Formula: HNO₃
• Molecular Weight: 63.01 g/mol
• Boiling Point: 83°C
• Specific Gravity (20°C): 1.19–1.27 (typical 1.23)
• Density at 25°C: 1.2 g/mL
• Vapor Pressure (20°C): 0.5 mmHg
• Refractive Index (20°C): 1.335
• Pour/Flash Point: Not applicable (non-flammable)
• Residue After Ignition: ≤ 0.01 wt% (typical 0.005)
• Chloride (Cl⁻) (ppm): ≤ 5 (typical 2)
• Nitrate (NO₃⁻) (ppm): ≤ 1000 (typical 200)
• Sulfate (SO₄²⁻) (ppm): ≤ 100 (typical 20)
• Arsenic (As) (ppm): ≤ 0.1 (typical 0.02)
• Heavy Metals (as Pb) (ppm): ≤ 0.1 (typical 0.02)
• Iron (Fe) (ppm): ≤ 0.5 (typical 0.05)
• Chromium (Cr) (ppm): ≤ 0.5 (typical 0.05)
• Nickel (Ni) (ppm): ≤ 0.5 (typical 0.05)
• Copper (Cu) (ppm): ≤ 0.5 (typical 0.05)
• Sodium (Na) (ppm): ≤ 2 (typical 0.4)
• Potassium (K) (ppm: ≤ 2 (typical 0.4)

Common Applications

• Application Category: Reagent for laboratory synthesis and analytical chemistry, used to oxidize substrates and drive selective reactions in controlled environments.
• Etching and Pickling: Surface pretreatment of metals to remove oxides and scale prior to plating or bonding processes, leveraging nitric acid’s oxidizing capability.
• Oxidation of Organic Intermediates: Used in controlled oxidation steps within pharmaceutical and specialty chemical manufacturing where stoichiometry is critical.
• Water Treatment Intermediary: Participates in oxidation-based treatment schemas and pH adjustment in controlled chemical loops.
• Electronics and Semiconductor Prep: Employed in cleaning and pretreatment steps where high-purity inorganic acids are required, in accordance with industry standards.
• Fertilizer Production Input: Serves as a chemical oxidant in synthesis pathways for nitrate-containing products and as a catalyst environment modifier.
• Analytical Chemistry Calibration: Primary standard in certain titration methods and a reference oxidant for validation of analytical equipment.
• Resin and Polymer Processing: Used in controlled oxidation steps during resin curing or polymer modification under tightly regulated conditions.

Safety Precautions

Handle and store Nitric Acid 40% only in corrosion-resistant containment (HDPE or glass) in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from incompatibles. Use appropriate PPE, including chemical splash goggles, face shield, acid-resistant gloves, and a lab coat or apron. Ensure compatible storage materials to prevent container corrosion and potential leakage; avoid exposure to light and heat to maintain stability. In case of contact, flush skin or eyes with large quantities of water for at least 15 minutes and seek medical attention promptly. Use approved acid spill kits and absorbents for containment and disposal in accordance with local regulations.

All personnel should be trained on the hazards of strong oxidizing acids, including signs of exposure such as irritation, coughing, or dizziness. Ensure adequate ventilation to prevent accumulation of fumes, especially in poorly ventilated spaces, and establish emergency procedures for spills, leaks, or accidental exposure per the SDS. For transport, follow UN 2031 guidelines, Class 8 (Corrosive), PG II, and use compatible packaging with proper labeling and hazard communication.

Benefits

✔ High-purity oxidant – Consistent 40% assay with low impurity profile ensures reliable performance in oxidation-dependent processes.
✔ ACS Reagent Grade – Meets industry standards for analytical and synthetic applications, with trace impurity controls validated by IC, ICP-OES, and UV methods.