Where It Comes From
Manufactured and used in fertilizer, explosives, metal finishing, and labs; released during production/use or spills; also forms in outdoor air from nitrogen oxides and contributes to acid rain. [2]
How You Are Exposed
Mostly at work when handling or near fumes; in hobbies like metal etching/jewelry; near facilities or during transport accidents; at low levels in outdoor air downwind of traffic/industry. [1][2][3]
Why It Matters
Causes severe burns; breathing vapors can cause coughing, shortness of breath, and delayed lung fluid buildup (pulmonary edema); repeated exposure may lead to chronic bronchitis and tooth erosion; can react with metals to release toxic brown nitrogen dioxide gas. [1][2][3]
Who Is at Risk
Industrial and lab workers, first responders; people with asthma/COPD, children, and older adults; communities near users of nitric acid. [1][2]
How to Lower Your Exposure
Use ventilation and acid-resistant PPE; never mix with organics or bases; store properly; during spills, move upwind and seek medical care if you develop breathing problems—even if delayed. [1][3]
References
- [1]CDC/NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards: Nitric acid.
- [2]U.S. EPA, Technology Transfer Network Air Toxics: Hazard Summary for Nitric Acid.
- [3]ATSDR (CDC). Medical Management Guidelines for Nitric Acid.