Anhydrous Aqua Regia: Benefits, Hazards & Effectiveness

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In summary, the addition of phosphorus pentoxide to nitric acid and hydrochloric acid can result in an anhydrous form of aqua regia. This may make it more effective, but it also poses potential hazards due to the presence of nitrosyl chloride. However, there are methods to prepare pure and anhydrous nitrosyl chloride.
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BernieM
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Phosphorus pentoxide can make nitric acid anhydrous, also hydrochloric. Aqua regia being a combination of the two acids, it seems to follow that the addition of phosphorus pentoxide would result in an anhydrous aqua regia? Is this a correct assumption? If it is correct, then would the 'anhydrous aqua regia' be more effective? And would there be any unusual hazards beyond being a more potent form of aqua regia?
 
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HCl without water is hardly an acid.
 
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FAQ: Anhydrous Aqua Regia: Benefits, Hazards & Effectiveness

What is anhydrous aqua regia and how is it different from regular aqua regia?

Anhydrous aqua regia is a mixture of concentrated nitric acid and concentrated hydrochloric acid. The term "anhydrous" means that the solution does not contain any water. Regular aqua regia, on the other hand, is a mixture of concentrated nitric acid and concentrated hydrochloric acid in a 1:3 ratio. The presence of water in regular aqua regia makes it less reactive compared to anhydrous aqua regia, which is more potent and effective in dissolving metals.

What are the benefits of using anhydrous aqua regia?

Anhydrous aqua regia is a powerful solvent that is commonly used in the scientific community for its ability to dissolve noble metals such as gold, platinum, and palladium. It is also used for cleaning laboratory equipment and preparing samples for analysis. Additionally, anhydrous aqua regia is highly corrosive, making it an effective etchant in microfabrication processes.

What are the hazards associated with handling anhydrous aqua regia?

Anhydrous aqua regia is highly corrosive and can cause severe burns if it comes into contact with the skin. It also produces toxic fumes that can irritate the respiratory system. It is important to handle anhydrous aqua regia with caution and wear appropriate protective gear, such as gloves, goggles, and a lab coat, when working with it. Proper ventilation is also necessary when using anhydrous aqua regia to prevent the buildup of toxic fumes.

Is anhydrous aqua regia effective in dissolving all metals?

Anhydrous aqua regia is a potent solvent for most metals, but there are some exceptions. It is not effective in dissolving metals such as tantalum, titanium, and zirconium due to the formation of protective oxide layers on their surfaces. It is important to consult the chemical compatibility of anhydrous aqua regia with the metal you are working with before using it as a solvent.

Can anhydrous aqua regia be stored for future use?

Anhydrous aqua regia is a highly reactive solution and should not be stored for long periods. It is best to prepare fresh batches of anhydrous aqua regia as needed. If storage is necessary, it should be done in a tightly sealed container and kept away from direct sunlight or heat sources. However, even with proper storage, the potency of anhydrous aqua regia may decrease over time, so it is recommended to prepare it fresh for optimal effectiveness.

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