Nital

Nital refers to two related but distinct terms in different fields. In metallography, Nital is a commonly used etchant consisting of nitric acid dissolved in ethanol. The solution is applied to polished metal surfaces to reveal microstructural features by preferentially corroding different phases in ferrous alloys, such as ferrite, pearlite, bainite, and martensite. The exact concentration and immersion time vary depending on the alloy and the features sought. After etching, the specimen is rinsed and dried for microscopic examination. Nital etching is widely used for quality control, materials research, and teaching. It is a hazardous chemical that emits acidic vapors, requiring proper ventilation, protective equipment, and careful disposal.

Nital S.p.A. is an Italian company that serves as the local distributor for Nikon imaging products in Italy. As part of Nikon’s European distribution network, Nital handles the sale of cameras, lenses, and related accessories, and provides regional sales support and service channels. The company has been involved in representing Nikon’s consumer and professional offerings in the Italian market, facilitating promotions, warranties, and after-sales assistance through authorized dealers and service centers.

In context, “Nital” thus denotes both a practical metallographic reagent and a separate corporate entity in the imaging industry. Each usage belongs to a distinct domain—materials science and consumer electronics photography—sharing no functional relation beyond the same name.