Sodium Nitrate
Chile Saltpeter, Soda Niter
- CAS
- 7631-99-4
- EC
- 231-554-3
- Food Code
- E251
- Sectors
- Food & Nutrition, Agriculture
Sodium Nitrate (CAS 7631-99-4) is an inorganic nitrate salt produced by neutralizing nitric acid with sodium carbonate, occurring as a white crystalline solid and used in food preservation, fertilizers and glass manufacturing. Density 2.26 g/cm³, melting point 308°C, decomposes above 380°C; highly soluble in water (921 g/L at 25°C), hygroscopic with neutral pH.
Sodium Nitrate
Applications
Used in fertilizers, food preservatives, glass manufacturing, as an oxidizer in explosives, pyrotechnics, and solar energy storage systems.
Safety & Risks
Strong oxidizer; fire risk with combustibles, toxic if ingested causing methemoglobinemia. Irritates skin/eyes; Hazard Class 5.1 for transport.
Packaging
In 25kg bags or bulk; store away from organics; rinse containers for recycling or puncture for sanitary disposal.