Nitrite Information
Nitrite:
Other Names |
Nitrite Ion; Nitrite Anion |
Chemical Formula |
NO2- |
CAS Number |
14797 – 65 – 0 |
Industry Uses |
Fertilizers; Corrosion Inhibitors; Preservatives |
Health Risks |
Methemoglobinemia; Blue-Baby Syndrome; Death |
What is Nitrite:
Nitrite, an intermediate in the nitrogen cycle, is formed during the decomposition of organic matter but readily oxidizes to form nitrate. These processes occur in wastewater, treatment plants, water distribution systems, and natural waters. Nitrite contamination can occur from runoff from fertilizers, leaking from septic tanks, sewage, and erosion of natural deposits. Nitrites are useful as corrosion inhibitors, preservatives, pigments, and in the manufacture of many organic preservatives.
Nitrite Exposure and Health Risks:
Contact with nitrite can cause irritation and burns to skin, eyes, and mucous membranes. Nitrite in drinking water can be very dangerous for infants below the age of six months. Symptoms of nitrite poisoning in infants include shortness of breath and blue-baby syndrome. If left untreated, the baby could die. Exposure to high levels of nitrite can cause methemoglobinemia, which decreases hemoglobin's ability to transport oxygen. This leads to decreased blood pressure, increased heart rate, headaches, abdominal cramps, vomiting, and even death. The presence of nitrite in the stomach has been linked to the production of some cancer-causing compounds.
Regulations:
The table below summarizes the most-recent standards.
Limit/Level |
Type |
Organization |
1 mg/L |
National Primary Drinking Water – Max Contaminant Level |
EPA |
Measuring Nitrite:
Dissolved Nitrite concentration in water can be measured in units of parts per million (ppm). We carry instrumental kits from CHEMetrics that determine nitrite levels in water. We carry kits that measure nitrite levels ranging from 0-2.5 ppm to 500-5,000 ppm. All of our nitrite products can be viewed HERE.
What type of component are you looking for?
Fixed Mount | Handheld | Dissolved Kits: | Replacement Sensors: | Calibration Gas: | Rentals: |
All sensors require a yearly calibration to ensure your gas measurements are accurate and performing within manufacturer standards. This page is desiccated to the individual manufacturers we represent and their specific calibration procedures.
**Calibration Service Request Form **
Calibration costs do vary, see below to get an estimate: Calibration Fee: $150 Analyzer Calibration Fee: $300 PM Calibration Sensor Fee: $330 Genie Calibration Fee: $265 ATI Calibration Fee: $205 ** note that prices are subject to change per labor and parts required. |
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