After decades in the industrial container business, the list of products and materials our drums have held seems endless, but each of those items (and each of our clients) has unique needs. Whether they are client preferences or regulations set forth by governing authorities, it is critical that the container suits the intended materials. There are a number of rules and regulations to follow with nitric acid storage, for example.
Nitric Acid is, when fully concentrated, a clear, highly corrosive acid with a sharp, pungent odor. No matter how dangerous or abrasive it may sound, it is an incredibly common and versatile substance. In fact, it is the second largest commodity mineral acid. For example, gardeners may know that nitric acid is commonly seen in fertilizer production while scientists would be acutely aware of its use in explosives. It is also often used in woodworking, metal finishing, cleaning and sanitization, dyes, and literal rocket science.
Nitric Acid is, obviously, an acid. And like other acids its concentration often determines the limitations of its storage containers and facilities. This is especially true with a highly corrosive acid like Nitric Acid. With strong oxidizing agents such as these, containers should be manufactured from easy to fabricate, readily available materials that are corrosion resistant to nitric acid at the relevant range of concentratiosn and temperatures.
Stainless Steel 316, for example, is approved for use in cases where the nitric acid concentration is 10% and the temperature is 90 degrees celsius. Alloy 304/304L is approved for less than or equal to 60% concentration and safe at the acid boiling point.
At Skolnik, we manufacture nitric acid storage drums in both of these materials for standard applications. Our process drums are crevice-free and easy to sanitize. As always, it is imperative to discuss all details of the intended use and conditions of a container with your manufacturer and transportation specialists.