Nitro Cellulose (NC)

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Product Description

Nitro Cellulose (NC) 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.

 

Description

Uses

Primary Uses 

  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. Printing Inks

    • Used as a binder in flexographic and gravure printing inks.

    • Provides excellent adhesion and gloss to printed materials.

  4. Adhesives and Films

    • Utilized in adhesive formulations for packaging and lamination.

    • Forms thin, flexible films in photographic and industrial applications.

Secondary Uses

  1. Cosmetics

    • Used in nail polish and hair sprays as a film-forming agent.

  2. Leather Finishing

    • Provides protective coatings on leather goods.

  3. Textile Finishing

    • Applied as a sizing agent or finish to improve fabric strength and sheen.

  4. 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

  1. Inhalation: Move to fresh air; seek medical attention if respiratory symptoms persist

  2. Skin Contact: Wash with soap and water; seek medical help if irritation occurs

  3. Eye Contact: Rinse immediately with water for 15 minutes; consult a physician if irritation continues

  4. 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