(See also pp. [39-49] and [172])
In the production of nitric acid complete imperviousness of the system and as complete condensation of the gases as possible by means of tourilles, cooling condensers, and the requisite number of towers are necessary. The method suggested by Valentine of manufacture of nitric acid in apparatus under a partial vacuum has advantages from a hygienic standpoint. Earthenware fans are used to force the nitric acid gases onwards and have the advantage of creating a negative pressure. Great care is needed in handling, emptying, packing, conveying, and storing the acid in consequence of the danger from breaking or spilling. The bottles used must be in perfect condition and must be well packed. No greater stock of nitric acid should be allowed in a room than is absolutely necessary, and care must be exercised in the event of a carboy breaking that the spilt acid does not come into contact with organic substances, as that would increase development of nitrous fumes.
Workers must be warned not to remain in rooms in which acid has been spilt. They are only to be entered by workers equipped with breathing apparatus (smoke helmets).
Among the special regulations on the subject may be mentioned those of the Prussian Ministerial Decree, dated January 8, 1900, concerning nitrous fumes and means of protection for workers employed with the acid. What has been said on p. [257] in regard to the transport of sulphuric acid applies equally to nitric acid.
In the nitrating process in the manufacture of explosives (see p. [47]) it is essential that the apparatus is hermetically closed, that agitation is done mechanically, or better still by means of compressed air, and that any fumes developed are exhausted and condensed. In the preparation of nitro-glycerin (see p. [46]) the gases developed in the nitration of the waste acid require to be carefully condensed. Contact of nitro-glycerin with the skin has to be avoided and the attention of the workers drawn to the danger. Preparation of gun cotton (see p. [48]) takes place in machines which are at the same time nitrating and centrifugalising machines. The apparatus is first filled with the nitrating acid and the cotton added; the fumes are drawn off by earthenware ducts and fans, and lastly the bulk of the acid is removed by centrifugal action. Such machines carry out effectually the principles of industrial hygiene.
In the preparation of fulminate of mercury nitrous fumes, cyanogen compounds, and acetic acid compounds are developed by the action of the nitric acid on mercury, and require to be dealt with by exhaust ventilation.[G]
Artificial Manures, Fertilizers
In grinding phosphorite and superphosphates, corrosive dust is produced. All grinding operations must, therefore, be carried out automatically in closed apparatus (ball mills, disintegrators, &c.). In making the phosphorite soluble by treatment with sulphuric acid, and subsequent drying of the product, corrosive hydrofluoric acid gas is developed, which requires to be carried away by an acid proof exhaust fan, and condensed in a tower by water ([see fig. 58]). The modern revolving drying machines are especially serviceable.