What it is
Strong oxidising acid made from ammonia. Used for fertilisers (ammonium nitrate), explosives, nitro-chemicals, metal etching and jewellery work.
Weak (about 55–60%)Concentrated (98%)
Where imports come from
DCPC's statistics do not cover nitric acid; no official national figure was found.
Rules before you buy or sell
- Nitric acid is listed in Schedule 1 of the Manufacture, Storage and Import of Hazardous Chemical (MSIHC) Rules, 1989. Above the threshold quantities, a unit must notify authorities, keep safety data sheets and an on-site emergency plan.
- Retail sale of acids is controlled by state poison rules.
Storage and handling
Store in stainless-steel or suitable plastic containers, away from organic matter, wood and metals; it can start fires.
Businesses that use it
Gem Cutting and Polishing →Chemical Etching on Wood (Decorative Panels) →