Overview. Potassium nitrate, also known as saltpeter, is an odorless powder composed of transparent and/or white crystals. It is prepared commercially for use in a number of products, including gunpowder, fireworks, matches, rocket propellants, ceramics, glass and fertilizers.ire. While potassium nitrate itself is not combustible, it is considered to be a strong oxidizer, meaning that it releases oxygen when it breaks down, or decomposes. This oxygen release greatly enhances the flammability of other materials.
European Commission. The European Commission (EC) is an institution of the European Union, responsible for proposing legislation, implementing decisions, upholding the EU treaties and managing the day-to-day business of the EU.
Each covers a specific policy area or service such as trade or environment, and is headed by a Director-General who reports to a Commissioner. Around 33 000 people are employed by the European Commission. In the European Parliament, around 6 000 people work in the general secretariat and in the political groups. They are joined by Members of Parliament and their staff. In the Council of the European Union, around 3 500 people work in the general secretariat.