Nitric acid
- Fertilizer production: Nitric acid is a key component in the production of ammonium nitrate and other nitrogen-based fertilizers.
- Explosives manufacturing: Nitric acid is a major ingredient in the production of explosives such as trinitrotoluene (TNT) and nitroglycerin.
- Metal refining: Nitric acid is used in the purification and refining of precious metals such as gold and silver, as well as in the production of electronic components.
- Pickling of steel: Nitric acid is used for the removal of rust and scale from steel in the metal finishing industry.
- Etching of metals: Nitric acid is used for etching and engraving designs on metal surfaces.
- Production of dyes and pigments: Nitric acid is used in the production of dyes and pigments for the textile and printing industries.
- Production of pharmaceuticals: Nitric acid is used in the production of some pharmaceuticals, such as nitroglycerin, which is used to treat heart conditions.
- Laboratory use: Nitric acid is used as a reagent in various chemical reactions in laboratories.