Nitric Acid 40%

Product Overview

Nitric Acid 40% is a strong, highly corrosive mineral acid formulated for demanding industrial and laboratory applications. Also known historically as Aqua Fortis, this Technical Grade solution serves as a powerful oxidizing agent. It appears as a clear, colorless liquid with a characteristic acrid odor. The solution is manufactured to a precise concentration of 39–41 wt%, ensuring consistent stoichiometry for chemical processing.

Engineers and plant operators utilize Nitric Acid 40% primarily for metal surface treatment, including etching, pickling, and passivation of stainless steel. It is fully miscible in water, allowing for accurate dilution in pH control systems and chemical synthesis workflows. Due to its high reactivity with metals and organic materials, this product is packaged in strictly compatible, corrosion-resistant containers (HDPE or glass) to maintain purity and safety during transport and storage.

Key Properties

• Chemical Name: Nitric Acid
• Grade: Technical
• Appearance: Clear, colorless liquid
• Chemical Formula: HNO₃
• CAS Number: 7697-37-2
• Molecular Weight: 63.01 g/mol
• Density (25°C): ~1.2 g/mL
• Specific Gravity (20°C): 1.19–1.27 (Typical 1.23)
• Solubility: Miscible in water
• Boiling Point: 83°C

Common Industrial Applications

• Metal Finishing & Passivation: Removes iron contamination and promotes the formation of a protective oxide layer on stainless steel surfaces.
• Etching & Pickling: Effectively strips oxides and scale from metals prior to plating or bonding processes.
• Chemical Synthesis: Acts as a nitrating agent and oxidant in the production of fertilizers, dyes, and organic intermediates.
• pH Adjustment: Used to lower pH in industrial water treatment and waste stream neutralization.
• Laboratory Reagent: Serves as a primary oxidant in analytical chemistry and titration workflows.

Safety & Handling

Nitric Acid 40% is a Corrosive Liquid (Class 8) and a strong oxidizer. It can cause severe skin burns and eye damage. Storage must be in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area, segregated from incompatible materials such as bases, reducing agents, and combustible organics. Store only in original corrosion-resistant containers.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Personnel must wear chemical splash goggles, face shields, acid-resistant gloves, and impervious clothing/aprons. Ensure immediate access to safety showers and eyewash stations. Refer to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for detailed emergency procedures and disposal guidelines.

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