The Menke nitration is the nitration of electron rich aromatic compounds with cupric nitrate and acetic anhydride. The reaction introduces the nitro group predominantly in the ortho position to the activation group. (2025). 9780470638859, John Wiley. ISBN 9780470638859 It may proceed via the intermediary of acetyl nitrate. The reaction is named after the Dutch chemist J.B. Menke.