Concentrated nitric acid, or HNO3, is a strong oxidizing agent. Ahighly corrosive and toxic substance, it is also known as spirit of nitre or aqua fortis (L. “strong water”).Concentrated nitric acid is usually colorless, but older samples tend to aquire a yellow cast due tonitrogen oxide accumulation. It is a mobile liquid and is completely soluble with water.
Handling and Storage:
Protect substance against mechanical injury from containers. Separate nitric acid from turpentine,combustible materials, carbides, metallic powders, fulminates, picrates, and chlorates. It should not alsocome in contact with cartridges and canisters that contain oxidizable materials like activated charcoal.
Wear protective clothing like lab coat, gloves, boots, and full-face shield prior to handling. Eliminateall sources of ignition. Use product in a well-ventilated area. Always add slowly and in small amounts.Add acids to water and not the other way around. Adding to water releases heat which may causesplattering and boiling, so never use hot water. Dispose empty containers of this substance as they may
be hazardous.
be hazardous.