Chemical of the Week Part 2 - Nitric Acid

Hazard Profile

Chemical Name and Pseudonyms

Nitric Acid, Aqua Fortis, Engravers Acid, Hydrogen Nitrate, Red Fuming Nitric Acid (RFNA), White Fuming Nitric Acid (WFNA), Azotic Acid

UN Number

2031 (other than fuming), 2032 (fuming)

Chemical Formula

HNO₃

Hazards

Corrosive (acidic) liquid, oxidizer

PPE Considerations

Splash Protective Garment or multi-threat ensemble with SCBA

Fire Fighting Considerations

CO ₂, dry chemical, dry sand, ATC AFFF

Decontamination

Ventilation, absorption, soap and water, neutralization for equipment.

Detection and Monitoring

Colormetric, electrochemical sensor, PID IP = 11.95 ev

Chemical and Physical Properties

Physical State

Colorless, red, or yellow liquid that may fume with suffocating odor

Vapor Pressure

~48 mmHg

Boiling Point

~181^oF

Vapor Density

~1.4

Specific Gravity

~1.5

Miscibility

Miscible

Flash Point

-

LEL/UEL

-

Autoignition Temp

-

pH

<1

Toxicity

IDLH

~25 ppm

PEL/REL/STEL

2 ppm/2 ppm/4 ppm

LD50

-

LC50

~2500 ppm

Radioactive (Yes/No)

No

Medical

Toxicological Considerations

Caustic by all routes. 

Signs/Symptoms of Exposure

Respiratory symptoms, skin burns, eye damage, chest tightness

Medical Treatment

Fresh air and treat symptomatically, flush areas of contact with water

Other Information

Incompatible combustible materials, metallic powders, hydrogen sulfide, carbides, alcohols.  Reacts with water.  Corrosive to metals

Chemical Structure