Saltpeter - what is it?

Saltpeter, what is it? Although the word is, in general, the ear, about what it specifically means, not everyone knows. Saltpeter - the old name of nitrates, that is, salts of nitric acid. There are several varieties of this substance. Depending on the connection with what is nitrogen, nitric, potassium and ammonium nitrate is different.

Potassium nitrate

So, what is potassium nitrate? The composition of this substance includes nitrogen (N-NO3) in an amount of 13% and potassium (K2O) in an amount of 46%. Potassium nitrate is used mainly as a fertilizer. Its application balances the balance in the tissues of plants, promotes the activation of photosynthetic processes , etc. This type of fertilizer can be used both for root dressing and for foliar dressing. It is also suitable for vegetable crops, fruit trees and shrubs, as well as for flowers, etc. Potassium nitrate and explosives are also produced .

Sodium nitrate

So, what is sodium nitrate ? This substance is a white crystal, which is also often used as a fertilizer. In addition, it is used in the glass and metallurgical industries. Another sphere of its use is the production of rocket fuel and explosives. Keep it next to organic combustible substances it can not, because the latter in this case may spontaneously ignite.

Ammonium nitrate

Ammonium nitrate, like the first two species, is used to make fertilizers and explosives. As a fertilizer, it is used mainly only in the first half of the season. It is suitable for almost any type of soil. One of its interesting features is that it can be used even in frost. The introduction of it in the beds should be accompanied by abundant watering. This also applies to the two types of nitrates described above.

Thus, saltpetre, the use of which is advisable in both agriculture and industry - a substance extremely useful and necessary. If desired, you can make it yourself. In this case, the composition can be used to impregnate wicks and paper in the manufacture of pyrotechnic devices, or, in fact, for use as a fertilizer.

How to make nitrate?

The most simple in manufacturing is considered to be sodium, rarely found on sale. For this, use conventional soda (1 part). The second component can be ammonium nitrate (2 parts). It's easy to find in the store. Two of these substances are mixed and filled with water, which must be hot or at least warm. This action will lead to the beginning of the reaction with the release of carbon dioxide and ammonia and a gradual decrease in temperature. Then the mixture is put on the fire and boiled for about two hours - until the end of the reaction. The solution is then evaporated.

In the manufacture of potassium nitrate, potash (potassium carbonate) is used instead of soda, which can be obtained from plant ash. To do this, the ash is dissolved in water, filter and evaporate the resulting solution.

So, now you know the answer to the question: "Nitrate - what is this?" The substance is useful and not too difficult to manufacture at home.