The global nitric acid market is expected to be primarily driven by increasing use of
fertilizers. The maximum amount of nitric acid is consumed in producing ammonium
nitrate and calcium ammonium nitrate (CAN). However, use of ammonium nitrate is
declining in Europe as well as other parts of the world because of concerns relating to
nitrate groundwater contamination and changes in agricultural subsidy policies. Urea is
emerging as one of the main nitrogen fertilizers, which is less costly, contains more
nitrogen, and does not have many safety issues.
Sodium benzoate is commonly used as a preservative as it prevents the growth of
microorganisms such as bacteria, yeast, fungi, and molds. The cost-effective nature of
sodium benzoate makes it preferred in the end-use industries. Sodium benzoate is
usually represented by the food additive code number E211.
The neutralization of sodium hydroxide and benzoic acid produce sodium benzoate.
Although benzoic acid has comparatively more efficient anti-microbial properties;
sodium benzoate is preferably used as a preservative as it is highly water soluble.