Sodium Nitrate

What is Sodium Nitrate?

 Sodium Nitrate (also known as Chile saltpetre) is an alkali metal nitrate salt that has different applications in various industries. This product is a strong oxidizer but stable under ordinary conditions. It is Noncombustible but accelerates the burning of combustible materials.

Some of the industries in which Archem Sodium Nitrate is used are:

• Cleaning
• Coatings & Construction
• Polymers
• Lubricants
• Oil & Gas

Sodium Nitrate Technical Properties

NaNO3 is an inorganic sodium salt and an inorganic nitrate salt. The mineral form of NaNO3 is known as Nitratine, Nitratite or Soda Niter. Chemical and physical properties of ArChem Sodium Nitrate are:

Sodium Nitrate Applications

ArChem free flowing Sodium Nitrate due to its high solubility in water, low cost, and nitrogen content, primarily is used in fertilizers. Some other uses of this compound include:

• Glass (antifoaming agent)
• Oxidizing agent
• Thermal energy storage
• Manufacture of salts such as potassium nitrate
• Adhesives and Sealants
• Metal Finishing

Sodium Nitrate Production

Soda Niter is produced industrially by neutralizing nitric acid with sodium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, or sodium hydroxide. The chemical  reactions are listed below:

• NaHCO₃ + HNO₃ → NaNO₃ + H₂O + CO₂
• Na₂CO₃ + 2HNO₃ → 2NaNO₃ + CO₂ + H₂O

• HNO₃+ NaOH → NaNO₃ + H₂O

Sodium Nitrate Storage

Storage conditions of ArChem NaNO3 are listed below:

• Sodium Nitrate should be stored in cool, dry conditions in well-sealed containers.
• This product should be kept out of moisture and direct sunlight.
• Sodium Nitrate should be stored at room temperature and away from heat/sparks/ open flames/ hot surfaces.
• Sodium Nitrate should be stored away from combustible materials and oxidizing agents.
• Sodium Nitrate should not be kept on wooden floors.

Sodium Nitrate Health Hazards

Sodium Nitrate is an oxidizer. This product can increase the burning rate of combustible materials. It reacts with acids to emit toxic nitrogen dioxide fumes. Plus, contact with incompatibles may cause an explosion. Some of the necessary first-aid measures are described below:

• If inhaled, loosen clothing and position the individual in a comfortable position. If breathing is difficult, move the victim into the fresh air and give oxygen. Seek medical attention immediately.
• In the case of skin contact, rinse the area with water for 10-15 minutes. Seek medical attention immediately.
• If in eyes, protect the unexposed eye. Rinse the exposed eye gently using water for 15-20 minutes. Seek medical attention if irritation persists or if concerned.
• In the case of swallowing, rinse your mouth thoroughly. Do not induce vomiting. Seek medical attention immediately. Have exposed victim drink sips of water or milk.

Operators should wash their hands before breaks and after work. they should use personal protective equipment and wear chemically impermeable gloves when handling Sodium Nitrate to avoid contact with the body, skin, and eyes.