Ammonium Cerium Nitrate (Ceric Ammonium Nitrate) Supplier in South Africa

What Is Ceric Ammonium Nitrate (CAN)?

Ceric ammonium nitrate (CAN), or ammonium cerium(IV) nitrate with formula (NH₄)₂Ce(NO₃)₆, is a vivid orange-red crystalline oxidant used widely in organic chemistry and analytical applications. It is one of the most convenient single-electron oxidants available in inorganic form, readily soluble in water and acetonitrile, and acts as a mild yet effective reagent under aqueous conditions without generating problematic by-products.

Organic Synthesis Oxidant

CAN is widely used in organic synthesis as a selective oxidant for the removal of protecting groups, particularly p-methoxybenzyl (PMB) ethers and esters. It oxidises hydroquinones to quinones, cleaves carbon–carbon bonds in 1,2-diols, and facilitates the nitration and cyanation of aromatic compounds. Its compatibility with a wide range of functional groups makes it a preferred reagent in pharmaceutical and fine chemical synthesis.

Analytical Chemistry & Primary Standard

In analytical chemistry, ceric ammonium nitrate serves as a primary standard for cerimetric titrations, offering a stable, accurately weighed form of Ce(IV) suitable for standardising reducing agents. It is used in the quantitative analysis of iron(II), hydrogen peroxide, oxalic acid, and organic reducing compounds. The reagent is supplied in analysis-grade purity for laboratory applications across Southern Africa.

PCB Etching & Industrial Oxidation

CAN is used in specialty PCB etching formulations as an alternative to ferric chloride, particularly for etching very fine circuit features. In industrial oxidation, it initiates radical polymerisation reactions and participates in the oxidative synthesis of conducting polymers such as polyaniline and polypyrrole. It is also used in deposition processes for cerium oxide thin films.