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.
The ECB, which is based in Frankfurt, Germany, issues currency, sets interest rates, and oversees other aspects of monetary policy for the EMU. The EMU's National Central Banks (such as the Banque de France and the Deutsche Bundesbank), together with the ECB, form the European System of Central Banks. They play an important role in implementing monetary policy, conducting foreign exchange operations, and maintaining the foreign reserves of member states.