4. Industrial prospects for the nitration reaction

Because of its simplicity, the nitration reaction is, and will remain for a long time to come, a key reaction in organic chemistry for the introduction of a nitrogen onto an aromatic ring. A number of recent studies have shown that, even with such an "old" reaction, there is still room for progress, both in terms of chemistry (new nitration agents) and technology (new processes). Further progress is needed to improve selectivity, yields, productivity, rejects and plant safety, particularly in the field of fine chemicals.