Since it's less efficient than modern processes I don't think it had any application besides the fun of a DIY project.
Though I guess it's an interesting way to obtain nitric acid for individuals, since access to it is quite restricted otherwise.
it's "less efficient" only because there is currently no meaningful externality priced into the natural gas supply chain. This might change in the future ;)
Is it? I can buy a pallet of 500ml bottles from a science supplier. Hell, I can buy a bottle from Amazon for $30.
>since access to it is quite restricted otherwise.
There's a reason for that, of course.