Salétromsav

Salétromsav, also known as nitric acid, is a highly corrosive mineral acid with the chemical formula HNO3. In its pure form, it is a colorless liquid, but it can often appear yellowish due to the decomposition of nitrogen dioxide, a common impurity. Salétromsav is a strong oxidizing agent and a potent acid.

It is produced industrially primarily through the Ostwald process, which involves the catalytic oxidation of ammonia. This process is a cornerstone of modern chemical manufacturing. Salétromsav is a key ingredient in the production of fertilizers, particularly ammonium nitrate, which is vital for agriculture worldwide. Beyond fertilizers, it plays a significant role in the synthesis of explosives, including nitroglycerin and TNT, due to its oxidizing properties. It is also used in metallurgy for etching and refining metals, in the production of dyes and plastics, and as a reagent in organic chemistry.

Due to its corrosive nature, handling salétromsav requires extreme caution and appropriate safety equipment. It can cause severe burns upon contact with skin and damage materials. Its fumes are also toxic. Despite its hazards, salétromsav remains an indispensable chemical in numerous industrial and scientific applications, contributing significantly to various sectors of the global economy.

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