Nitro Cellulose

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Nitro Cellulose is a highly flammable compound produced by nitrating cellulose through exposure to nitric acid and sulfuric acid. It is a versatile material widely used in coatings, lacquers, explosives, and propellants due to its film-forming properties and rapid drying capability. Nitro Cellulose is available in various grades depending on the nitrogen content and viscosity, making it suitable for industrial, commercial, and military applications.

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Categories: Additives, Binders/Resins, Fillers and Reinforcements Tags: Cellulose Nitrate, Fast Drying, NC, Nitro Cellulose, Paints & Coatings

Description

Table of Contents

Nitro Cellulose

Primary Uses

Coatings and Lacquers
- Used extensively in wood finishes, automotive coatings, and nail polishes for its quick drying and glossy finish properties.
- Serves as a binder in paints and varnishes.
Explosives and Propellants
- Key ingredient in smokeless gunpowder and other propellants due to its high energy release and clean combustion.
- Used in military ammunition and pyrotechnics.
Printing Inks
- Used as a binder in flexographic and gravure printing inks.
- Provides excellent adhesion and gloss to printed materials.
Adhesives and Films
- Utilized in adhesive formulations for packaging and lamination.
- Forms thin, flexible films in photographic and industrial applications.

Secondary Uses

Cosmetics
- Used in nail polish and hair sprays as a film-forming agent.
Leather Finishing
- Provides protective coatings on leather goods.
Textile Finishing
- Applied as a sizing agent or finish to improve fabric strength and sheen.
Specialty Applications
- Used in the manufacture of cellulose-based plastics and lacquers for musical instruments and toys.

KEY PRODUCT FEATURES

Key Attributes

Basic Identification Attributes

Chemical Name (IUPAC): Cellulose nitrate
Common/Trade Name: Nitro Cellulose, Gun Cotton
CAS Number: 9004-70-0
HS Code: 3912.10.00
Synonyms: Pyroxylin, guncotton

Physical & Chemical Properties

Physical State: White to pale yellow fibrous or granular solid
Odor: Mild acidic odor
Nitrogen Content: Typically 11-13% (varies by grade)
Solubility: Soluble in acetone, ether, ethanol; insoluble in water
Density: Approx. 1.6 g/cm³
Flammability: Highly flammable and explosive under certain conditions

Safety & Hazard Attributes

GHS Classification: Flammable solids (Category 1), Explosive (varies by grade)
Toxicity: Moderate; dust inhalation can cause irritation
Exposure Limits: Use in controlled environments to limit dust and vapors

Storage & Handling Attributes

Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from heat, sparks, and open flames
Container Type: Supplied in sealed, non-metallic containers or drums
Shelf Life: Typically 1–2 years under proper storage
Handling Precautions: Avoid friction, impact, static discharge; use explosion-proof equipment

Regulatory & Compliance Attributes

Complies with military and industrial standards for explosives and coatings
Subject to strict transport regulations due to explosive potential
Registered under relevant chemical safety and explosives control laws

Environmental & Health Impact

Biodegradability: Partially biodegradable under environmental conditions
Ecotoxicity: Low environmental risk when handled properly
Bioaccumulation: Not expected to bioaccumulate
Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: Not classified as carcinogenic

SAFETY HANDLING PRECAUTIONS

Safety Handling Precautions

PPE Required: Flame-resistant clothing, gloves, eye protection, and respiratory protection if dusty
Handling Guidelines: Use grounding and bonding to prevent static; avoid open flames
Storage Measures: Segregate from incompatible materials such as acids and reducing agents

First Aid Measures

Inhalation: Move to fresh air; seek medical attention if respiratory symptoms persist
Skin Contact: Wash with soap and water; seek medical help if irritation occurs
Eye Contact: Rinse immediately with water for 15 minutes; consult a physician if irritation continues
Ingestion: Do not induce vomiting; seek medical advice promptly

Firefighting Measures

Fire Hazards: Highly flammable and explosive under heat or friction
Extinguishing Media: Use water spray or fog; do not use dry chemical extinguishers on large fires
Special Precautions: Evacuate area; wear full protective and respiratory equipment
Hazardous Combustion Products: Nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, and other toxic gases