What is the difference between Nitrate of Soda 16-0-0 and Sodium Nitrate 99%? Nitrate of soda is the common name used for a sodium nitrate containing fertilizer. In nitrate of soda 16-0-0 only 16% nitrogen is available. ... Nitrate of soda 16-0-0 is mainly a fertilizer but sodium nitrate 99% has other uses, as well.