Sodium nitrate (NaNO₃) is a versatile inorganic compound that plays a critical role in numerous industrial sectors, from agriculture to manufacturing and pyrotechnics. Valued for its stability, reactivity, and multifunctional properties, it is a sought-after chemical raw material for businesses worldwide. E&M Industrial Limited, a trusted global chemical exporter, offers high-purity
sodium nitrate tailored to meet the demands of diverse industries. In this article, we’ll explore the core specifications, key uses, storage requirements, and packaging details of sodium nitrate—providing valuable insights for industrial buyers and businesses seeking reliable chemical solutions.
Sodium nitrate is defined by a set of key characteristics that make it suitable for industrial applications. Its chemical formula is NaNO₃, with a CAS number of 7631-99-4 and an HS code of 3102500000. Classified as a Hazard Class 5.1 material (oxidizing substance) with a UN number of 1498, it requires careful handling and storage to ensure safety.
Physically, sodium nitrate appears as colorless, transparent triangular crystals or white fine crystals/powder. It is odorless, with a salty and slightly bitter taste, and exhibits hygroscopic properties—meaning it readily absorbs moisture from the air. E&M Industrial’s sodium nitrate boasts a purity level of 99%, ensuring consistent performance and reliability across applications. This high purity makes it suitable for both general industrial use and specialized processes where precision is critical.
One of sodium nitrate’s greatest strengths is its wide range of applications, spanning multiple industries. Its unique properties make it indispensable in the following areas:
As a foundational chemical raw material, sodium nitrate is used to produce nitric acid, sodium nitrite (NaNO₂), explosives (such as picric acid), dyes, and pyrotechnic products. Its oxidizing properties make it a key component in these processes, enabling efficient synthesis and consistent product quality.
In metal processing, sodium nitrate is utilized to remove oxide layers from the surface of copper alloys. This cleaning action enhances the efficiency of subsequent manufacturing steps, such as welding, plating, or machining, by ensuring better adhesion and reducing defects.
Sodium nitrate serves as a valuable additive in enamel and glass production. It lowers the melting point of raw materials, reducing energy consumption during manufacturing, and enhances the luster and transparency of finished glass and ceramic products—improving their aesthetic and functional qualities.
In the production of sulfuric acid, sodium nitrate acts as an oxidizing catalyst. It accelerates chemical reactions, increasing process efficiency and helping to maintain consistent output of high-quality sulfuric acid, a critical chemical used in countless industrial applications.
As a nitrogen fertilizer, sodium nitrate provides plants with essential nitrogen— a key nutrient for growth, photosynthesis, and crop yield. Its water-soluble nature allows for easy absorption by plants, making it a practical choice for farmers seeking to boost agricultural productivity.
In laboratory settings, sodium nitrate is used for amino acid analysis and quantitative detection of organic compounds, supporting scientific research and quality control. Additionally, some CIQ (China Inspection and Quarantine) codes permit its use as a food additive, though this application is subject to strict regulatory compliance.
Due to its hygroscopic nature and classification as a Hazard Class 5.1 oxidizing substance, sodium nitrate requires specific storage conditions to ensure safety and preserve its quality. It should be stored in a cool, well-ventilated, and dry environment, away from fire, heat sources, reducing agents, and flammable materials. Proper separation from incompatible substances prevents potential chemical reactions, while controlled humidity minimizes moisture absorption, which can degrade the product or cause caking.
E&M Industrial offers practical packaging and loading options to accommodate industrial-scale orders. Sodium nitrate is packaged in woven bags with a net weight of 50kg per bag. For shipping, a 20ft container can hold a maximum of 25 tons when using pallets, or 27 tons without pallets—providing flexibility for logistics planning and cost optimization. This packaging design ensures product integrity during transport and simplifies handling at warehouses or production facilities.
E&M Industrial’s sodium nitrate stands out for its 99% purity, adherence to international safety standards, and flexible packaging options. As a global chemical exporter with a presence in over 40 countries, the company ensures reliable supply chains and consistent product quality, backed by detailed specifications and compliance documentation. For businesses seeking a versatile, high-performance chemical raw material, sodium nitrate from E&M Industrial meets the demands of diverse industrial applications while adhering to safety and quality benchmarks.
In summary, sodium nitrate is a multifunctional inorganic compound with far-reaching industrial applications, from chemical manufacturing and agriculture to glass production and metal treatment. Its unique properties, combined with proper handling and storage, make it a valuable asset for businesses across sectors. E&M Industrial’s high-purity sodium nitrate, paired with practical packaging and global supply capabilities, positions it as a trusted choice for industrial buyers.
