Hi everyone,

We have a question from a colleague:

I have a researcher who is proposing to reflux a mixture of hot nitric 70%)/ perchloric (70%) and sulfuric acids (95%+) in a 1:2:1 mixture for removal of contamination from diamond surfaces. I was wondering if any of you have experience with a similar process? I’m concerned as there is limited information available for this method (published research data) and the available safety data does not recommend mixing sulfuric and perchloric acids not to mention heating such a mixture. We do have a perchloric acid hood available to the researcher, but I’m looking for a more defined, successfully executed process that can be used as reference in terms of apparatus, parameters such as time, temperature, volumes etc. Any feedback on overall safety considerations are also welcomed J

Ellen Sweet

Laboratory Ventilation Specialist

Department of Environmental Health and Safety, Cornell University

American Chemical Society, Division of Chemical Health and Safety

315-730-8896