Some remarks on the theory of nitration

Experiments on formation of nitric esters of starch (“O-nitration” of starch) led to the conclusion, that nitration occurs not necessarily by means of NO₂⁺ ions, but NO₃⁻ ions and/or undissociated nitric acid are nitrating agents.

Nitrating mixtures rich in nitric acid may yield products of higher nitrogen content owing to the fact that the reaction occurs in one phase system.