Nitric Acid 20%

Product Overview

Nitric Acid 20% is a technical-grade aqueous solution of nitric acid (HNO3), historically referred to as Aqua Fortis. This 20% concentration provides a stable, controlled oxidizing agent necessary for industrial metal finishing, etching, and chemical synthesis. Unlike highly concentrated fuming acids, this dilution offers reduced vapor generation while maintaining sufficient acidity for effective surface treatment and pH regulation.

Engineered for consistency, our Nitric Acid 20% meets strict technical specifications with low impurity profiles. It is widely utilized in the passivation of stainless steel, cleaning of process equipment, and as a raw material in nitrate production. The clear to pale yellow liquid is manufactured under rigorous quality control standards to ensure predictable performance in manufacturing workflows and laboratory applications.

Key Properties

• CAS Number: 7697-37-2
• Appearance: Clear, colorless to pale yellow liquid
• Chemical Formula: HNO3
• Molecular Weight: 63.01 g/mol
• Specific Gravity: 1.086–1.09 at 20°C (typical 1.088)
• Boiling Point: 83°C
• Grade: Technical
• Residue After Ignition: Max 0.02%
• Chloride Content: Max 5 ppm
• Iron (Fe): Max 2 ppm
• Heavy Metals (as Pb): Max 0.5 ppm

Common Applications

• Metal Etching & Pickling: Used extensively for etching copper, brass, and other metals in circuit board manufacturing and surface patterning.
• Stainless Steel Passivation: Removes free iron from the surface of stainless steel components to enhance corrosion resistance.
• pH Adjustment: Provides precise acidity control for wastewater treatment, cooling towers, and industrial process water.
• Chemical Synthesis: Acts as a strong oxidizing agent and nitrate source in the production of fertilizers and chemical intermediates.
• Equipment Cleaning: Effective for removing mineral deposits and inorganic scale from industrial machinery.

Safety & Handling

Nitric Acid 20% is a corrosive liquid and a strong oxidizer. It can cause severe skin burns and eye damage. Appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is mandatory, including acid-resistant gloves, splash goggles, face shields, and protective clothing. Ensure usage in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhalation of vapors. Store in a cool, dry place away from incompatible materials such as organic compounds, reducing agents, and bases.

Shipping Information: This product is regulated as a Hazardous Material for transport. It ships as UN 2031, Nitric Acid, Class 8, PG II. All shipments comply with DOT regulations.

Benefits

Controlled Concentration: 20% strength reduces fuming hazards while maintaining effectiveness for etching and passivation.
Technical Purity: Low trace metal content verified by ICP-OES/MS ensures process integrity.
Versatile Packaging: Available in lab-scale bottles (1L, 2.5L) and bulk industrial drums (55 Gallon).
Verified Specifications: Every batch includes a Certificate of Analysis (COA) confirming adherence to technical standards.

Related Products

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• 10% Vinegar - Industrial Strength
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