Nitreraadinti

Nitreraadinti is the chemical process of introducing nitro groups into organic molecules, most notably by electrophilic aromatic substitution in aromatic rings. The active nitrating species is the nitronium ion NO2+, generated in situ by mixtures of strong acids. Nitration can also target alkenes and some heteroatom-containing substrates under acidic conditions, and, in some cases, alternative nitrating reagents such as acetyl nitrate may be employed. The reaction adds a nitro group to the substrate, with the position of substitution influenced by existing substituents on the aromatic ring and by the reaction conditions.

Nitration products, nitro compounds, are versatile intermediates in organic synthesis. Nitro groups can be reduced to amines or converted into other functional groups, enabling routes to dyes, pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and energetic materials. Although the classic nitration of arenes is widely used in industry, newer methods aim to improve regioselectivity, milder conditions, and safer handling.

Safety and handling: Nitration reactions are highly exothermic and typically involve corrosive acids and hazardous materials. They require appropriate engineering controls, containment for corrosive wastes, and careful waste treatment to minimize environmental impact. Due to the potential to form sensitive nitro compounds, strict safety protocols and regulatory controls apply.

History: Nitration is among the oldest and most studied transformations in organic chemistry, with early demonstrations in the 19th century laying the groundwork for modern functionalization strategies.