Nitric acid (HNO3) titration

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 the formulation of fertilizers, technical products, and in the processing of raw materials. Due to its oxidizing power and potential toxicity, it is essential to rigorously monitor its concentration in the matrices where it is present.

Nitric acid analysis allows for the precise identification and quantification of this analyte in aqueous solutions, industrial formulations, or liquid effluents. It is essential for ensuring product conformity, securing processes, and meeting regulatory requirements.

Analytical methods used for the determination of HNO₃

The analysis of nitric acid relies 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 controls.
• 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.

Matrices analyzed and industrial applications

The determination of HNO₃ 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-based raw materials or food products: control of acid residues from processes or cross-contamination.
• Nutraceutical products and food supplements: evaluation of residual solvents or acids in extracts.

Nitric acid control is also common in the cosmetics, plant protection, and chemical waste treatment industries.

Why measure nitric acid?

Measuring HNO₃ is essential for several reasons:

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

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

Examples of additional analyses available on YesWeLab

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

• Determination of sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄) : for strongly acidic media or mixtures of acids.
• Analysis of nitrates and nitrites : for environmental or food monitoring.

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

Why go through YesWeLab?

At YesWeLab, we provide you with 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 will 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, regardless of the complexity of your project.