saltpeter, what is it?Although the word is, in general, at the hearing, that it means exactly, they do not know everything.Saltpeter - the old name of nitrates, ie salts of nitric acid.There are several varieties of this substance.Depending on what compound is nitrogen varies nitrate, sodium, potassium and ammonium.
Potassium saltpeter
So potassium nitrate - what is it?The composition of this material includes nitrogen (N-NO3) of 13% and potassium (K2O) in amounts of 46%.Potassium nitrate is used mainly as a fertilizer.Its application balances the balance of plant tissues, helps to activate the process of photosynthesis, and so on. D. This type of fertilizer can be used for root fertilizing, as well as for foliar.Great she and vegetables, and fruit trees and shrubs as well as flowers, and so on. D. Make of potassium nitrate and explosives.
Sodium saltpeter
So, sodium nitrate - what is it?This material is white crystals, which are also commonly used as a fertilizer.In addition, it is used in the glass and metallurgical industries.Another area of use - production of rocket fuel and explosives.Keep away from flammable organic substances can not be, because the latter in this case may ignite spontaneously.
Ammonium nitrate
Ammonium nitrate as the first two types, used for the manufacture of fertilizers and explosives.As a fertilizer, it is used mainly 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 cold weather.Adding it to the beds should be accompanied by copious irrigation.This also applies to the above two types of nitrates.
Thus, nitrate, which it is advisable to use both in agriculture and in industry - a substance extremely useful and necessary.If you wish, you can make it on their own.In this case, the composition can be used to impregnate the paper wicks, and the manufacture of the pyrotechnic devices, or, indeed, for use as a fertilizer.
How to nitrate?
most simple to manufacture sodium is considered to be rare in the sale.For this purpose an ordinary soda (1 part).The second component may be ammonium nitrate (2 parts).It is easy to find in the store.These two substances are mixed and filled with water, which must be hot or at least warm.This will lead to the beginning of the reaction with the release of carbon dioxide and ammonia and a gradual decrease in temperature.The mixture is then put on the fire and boil for about two hours - before the end of the reaction.The solution was then evaporated.
In the manufacture of potassium nitrate is used instead of soda potash (potassium carbonate), which can be obtained from plant ash.For this ash is dissolved in water, filtered and the resulting solution was evaporated.
So now you know the answer to the question: "Ammonium nitrate - what is it?"The substance is useful and not too difficult to manufacture at home.
