# Nitric Acid 68%: Uses, Safety and Where to Buy in Australia

Nitric acid is one of the most widely used industrial chemicals in Australia, valued for its powerful oxidising properties across metal treatment, laboratory work, electronics manufacturing and more. If you’re sourcing nitric acid for commercial or industrial purposes, understanding its applications and safe handling requirements is essential before you buy.

## What Is Nitric Acid Used For?

Nitric acid (HNO₃) at 68% concentration is the most common commercial grade available in Australia. It’s a strong oxidising acid with a broad range of industrial and technical applications.

**Common uses include:**

– **Metal treatment and pickling** — removes surface oxides and scale from stainless steel, copper and aluminium
– **Electronics manufacturing** — etching and cleaning circuit boards and metal components
– **Laboratory and analytical chemistry** — used as a reagent for digestion, testing and titration
– **Fertiliser production** — a key precursor in manufacturing ammonium nitrate
– **Jewellery and goldsmithing** — acid testing and refining precious metals
– **Cleaning and passivation** — restoring passivity on stainless steel surfaces in food processing and pharmaceutical environments

Because of its reactivity, nitric acid must be stored in appropriate chemical-resistant containers and kept well away from combustibles, organic materials and bases. At 68%, it’s highly corrosive and produces toxic nitrogen dioxide fumes on contact with many materials — proper handling procedures are non-negotiable.

## Safe Handling and Storage of Nitric Acid

Working safely with nitric acid starts with understanding its hazards. It is classified as a dangerous good (Class 8 — Corrosive) and requires careful management at every stage, from transport through to storage and disposal.

**Key safety guidelines:**

– **PPE is mandatory** — chemical-resistant gloves (nitrile or neoprene), safety goggles, face shield and acid-resistant apron or lab coat
– **Ventilation** — always work in a well-ventilated area or under a fume hood; nitric acid vapour is highly irritating to the respiratory system
– **Storage** — store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight; keep away from flammables, alkalis, organic solvents and reducing agents
– **Spill containment** — use a compliant chemical bund or spill pallet to contain leaks; have appropriate neutralising agents (e.g., sodium bicarbonate) on hand
– **Incompatibles** — never mix with hydrochloric acid (produces chlorine gas), acetone, alcohol or other organic compounds

All handlers should have access to the product’s Safety Data Sheet (SDS) before use. Viva Blu provides SDS documentation with every chemical product.

## Buying Nitric Acid in Australia — What to Look For

Sourcing nitric acid in Australia involves more than simply finding the cheapest price. Regulatory compliance, concentration accuracy, packaging integrity and supplier reliability all matter — particularly for businesses operating under workplace health and safety obligations.