History of use of saltpeter since the most ancient times up to now

Deterioration in the ecological situation causes concern of society and indicates the need of search of innovative approaches to prevent the negative impact on environment. One of the ways to change the current situation is the practical introduction of the principles of green chemistry. The key principles of the specified concept are considered on the example of production and the subsequent use of ammonium nitrate ? the explosive used from antiquity and up to now.