Strontium nitrate Strontium nitrate Strontium nitrate is an inorganic compound made of the elements strontium and nitrogen with the formula Sr(NO). This colorless solid is used as a red colorant and oxidizer in pyrotechnics. Strontium nitrate is typically generated by the reaction of nitric acid on strontium carbonate. Like many other strontium salts, strontium nitrate is used to produce a rich red flame in fireworks and road flares. The oxidizing properties of this salt are advantageous in such applications. Strontium nitrate can aid in eliminating and lessening skin irritations. When mixed with glycolic acid, strontium nitrate reduces the sensation of skin irritation
Sodium nitrate Hobbyist gold refiners use sodium nitrate to make a hybrid aqua regia that dissolves gold and other metals. Sodium nitrate is also a food additive used as a preservative and color fixative in cured meats and poultry; it is listed under its INS number 251 or E number E251. It is approved for use in the EU, USA and Australia and New Zealand. Sodium nitrate should not be confused with sodium nitrite, which is also a common food additive and preservative used, for example, in deli meats. Less common applications include as an oxidizer in fireworks, replacing potassium nitrate commonly