Nitric acid (HNO3) determination

Nitric acid (HNO₃) is a strong, colorless to pale yellow mineral acid widely used in the chemical, food, nutraceutical, and environmental industries. It is used in particular in the formulation of fertilizers, technical products, and in the processing of raw materials. Due to its oxidizing power and potential toxicity, it is imperative to rigorously monitor its concentration in the matrices in which it is present.

Nitric acid measurement allows for the precise identification and quantification of this analyte in aqueous solutions, industrial formulations, or liquid effluents. It is essential for ensuring product compliance, process safety, and meeting regulatory requirements.

Analytical methods used for the determination of HNO₃

Nitric acid analysis is based on different analytical chemistry techniques depending on the type of sample and the expected concentration:

• Titrimetry (acid-base or redox titration): classic, reliable and economical method, often used for routine checks.
• UV-Vis spectrophotometry: sensitive technique based on the measurement of the specific absorbance of nitric acid or its derivatives.
• Ion exchange chromatography (IC): ideal for distinguishing anionic species (NO₃⁻) in the presence of other inorganic acids or complex matrices.

The choice of method depends on the type of matrix, the required detection threshold and the regulatory context.

Analyzed matrices and industrial applications

HNO₃ determination is applicable in many matrices, including:

• Chemical solutions and technical formulations: concentration verification for production or storage.
• Industrial effluents: monitoring of discharges and environmental compliance.
• Plant raw materials or food products: control of acid residues from processes or cross-contamination.
• Nutraceutical products and food supplements: evaluation of solvents or residual acids in extracts.

Nitric acid control is also common in the cosmetics and phytosanitary industries or in chemical waste treatment centers.

Why measure nitric acid?

The dosage of HNO₃ is essential for several reasons:

• Ensure regulatory compliance (e.g., discharge limits, REACH, ICPE standards)
• Ensuring the safety of operators and consumers
• Prevent the risks of corrosion or oxidation in formulations
• Mastering industrial processes involving acid reactions
• Validate neutralization or recycling processes

Precise dosing also helps reduce material losses, optimize formulations and limit environmental impacts.

Examples of additional analyses available on YesWeLab

As part of quality or regulatory control, it may be relevant to combine HNO₃ measurement with other targeted chemical analyses, also available on our platform:

• Dosage of sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄) : for strongly acidic media or mixtures of acids.
• Nitrate and nitrite analysis : for environmental or food monitoring.

These services can be combined to address complex issues or multi-parameter control protocols.

Why go through YesWeLab?

At YesWeLab, we offer you a network of partner laboratories specializing in mineral, environmental, and industrial chemistry. Each laboratory is rigorously selected based on its accreditations (ISO 17025, COFRAC), validated methods, and responsiveness.

You benefit from:

• Personalized scientific support
• Centralized monitoring on an intuitive digital platform
• Reliable and standardized results, ready to be integrated into your regulatory files

Our team will guide you towards the method and laboratory best suited to your needs.

Need a nitric acid dosage?

Submit your request now via our online form or contact our scientific team for any technical or regulatory questions.
YesWeLab simplifies your laboratory analyses, no matter the complexity of your project.