Ammonium Chloride
WHAT IS AMMONIUM CHLORIDE? | FEATURES, PRODUCTION METHOD AND APPLICATIONS
Ammonium chloride or ammonium chloride, an inorganic (inorganic) compound with the formula NH4Cl, is a white crystalline salt that is very soluble in water. Ammonium chloride solutions are mildly acidic. Ammonia sal (Sal ammoniac) is the name of the natural and mineral form of ammonium chloride. This mineral is usually formed in the process of burning coal waste, resulting from the condensation of coal-derived gases. Ammonium chloride is also found around some types of volcanic craters. This material is mainly used as fertilizer in agriculture and flavoring in food industry. This product is obtained from the reaction of hydrochloric acid and ammonia.
A LOOK AT THE HISTORY OF AMMONIUM CHLORIDE
The first use of ammonium chloride compound was in 554 AD in China. At that time, ammonium chloride was obtained from two sources: 1: at Alai, in the southwestern mountains of Kyrgyzstan, and 2: from the volcanic fumes of Mount Taftan in southeastern Iran. Then, through the silk road, Nushadir salt made its way from the east to China and from the west to Muslim lands and European countries. Around 800 AD, the Arabs of Egypt discovered the compound ammonium chloride in the soot produced by burning camel dung, and this source replaced the sources in Central Asia.
METHODS OF PRODUCING OF AMMONIUM CHLIRIDE
To know more about what is ammonium chloride, it is better to get acquainted with the production methods of this material. The Solvay process is used to produce sodium carbonate:
CO2 +2 NH3 +2 NaCl + H2O →2 NH4Cl + Na2CO3
In addition to being the main method, this method is also used to produce Nushadir salt. This method is used to minimize the release of ammonia in some industrial operations.
Industrial ammonium chloride is prepared commercially by combining ammonia (NH3) or hydrogen chloride (gas) or hydrochloric acid (aqueous solution):
NH3 + HCl → NH4Cl
Ammonium chloride occurs naturally in volcanic areas and forms on volcanic rocks near vents that release steam. Crystals from this material precipitate directly from the gaseous state and have a short life span because they dissolve easily in water.
WHAT ARE THE PROPERTIES AND CHARACTERISTICS OF AMMONIUM CHLORIDE?
Ammonium chloride appears to sublimate with heat, but it actually decomposes into ammonia gas and hydrogen chloride.
NH4Cl → NH3 + HCl
Ammonium chloride reacts with a strong acid such as sodium hydroxide to release ammonia gas:
NH4Cl + NaOH → NH3 + NaCl + H2O
Similarly, ammonium chloride also reacts with alkali metal carbonates at high temperature and produces ammonia and alkali metal chloride:
2NH4Cl + Na2CO3 →2 NaCl + CO2 + H2O +2 NH3
A 5% solution by weight of Nushadir salt in water has a pH in the range of 4.6 to 6.
Some reactions of Nushadir salt with other chemicals, such as its reaction with barium hydroxide and its dissolution in water, are exothermic.
WHAT ARE THE USES OF AMMONIUM CHLORIDE?
Ammonium chloride in Agriculture
Ammonium chlorideis used as one of the important chemicals in various industries. One of its main uses is in the production of dry batteries (zinc-carbon batteries). This substance acts as an electrolyte in these types of batteries and helps transport ions, which are essential for generating electrical energy. Also, ammonium chloride is used in the metalworking industry to clean and prepare metal surfaces before soldering or welding. By removing oxides and other impurities, this material prepares the metal surface to create stronger and more stable connections.
In addition, ammonium chloride is used as an additive in the detergent industry. This combination helps to improve the efficiency of detergents in removing stains and pollution. In the food industry, ammonium chloride is used as a pH modifying agent and a leavening agent in the production of bread and baked goods. Also, in agriculture, ammonium chloride is used as a nitrogen fertilizer that improves the growth and yield of agricultural products. By providing the nitrogen needed by plants, this substance helps to strengthen the growth of greenery and increase crop production.
1- Agricultural fertilizer production: The most common use of Nushadir salt as a source of nitrogen is in the preparation of fertilizers such as chlorammonium phosphate ( this use corresponds to 90% of the Nushadir salt produced in the world) the main crops that are fertilized in this way are rice and wheat.
2- Metalwork: Nushadir salt is used as a flux in the preparation of metals to create a tin coating, galvanizing or soldering. Ammonium chloride acts as a flux by cleaning the surface of the desired parts, through reaction with the metal oxides on the surface and forming a volatile metal chloride.
3- Pharmacy: Nushadir salt is used as an expectorant in antitussive drugs. This feature is caused by the irritating effect on the respiratory bronchial mucosa, which causes the production of excess fluid in the respiratory tract. Ammonium salts irritate the stomach lining and may cause nausea and vomiting. Pharmaceutical grade Nushadir salt is used as a systemic acidifying agent in the treatment of severe metabolic alkalosis or in the treatment of some urinary tract disorders. Of course, these studies are still ongoing.
4- Food industry: Nushadir salt with the name ammonia sal or salmiak is used as a food additive with the number E510, as a yeast nutrient in bread making and as an acidifying agent. This compound is considered as a feed supplement for cattle and a nutrient builder for yeasts and many microorganisms. In the preparation of some industrial sweets, cookies and cookies, as well as in some carbonated drinks, sodium chloride or Nushadir salt is used. In the application of preparing sweets and cookies, this substance can create a crispy and pleasant texture in the food.
5- Laboratory: Ammonium chloride has historically been used in cooling baths to create low temperatures. Nushadir salt and ammonia solutions are used as buffer solutions (ammonium-chloride-potassium).
6- Archaeology: In archaeology, Nushadir salt vapor is deposited on fossils; Under these conditions, the substance produces a bright white layer of tiny crystals that are easily removed and are relatively harmless and ineffective. This color covers each fossil and increases the contrast when photographing 3D specimens.
7- Battery making: Around the end of the 20th century, Nushadir salt in aqueous solution form was used as the electrolyte in Leclanché cells, which found commercial use as a “native battery” in subscriber telephone installations. These cells later evolved into zinc-carbon batteries that still use Nushadir salt as an electrolyte.
8- Medicinal uses of ammonium chloride: Ammonium chloride is used in the pharmaceutical industry as a diuretic and expectorant. This compound is used in anti-cough and expectorant drugs and by increasing the secretion of mucus, it helps to facilitate the discharge of mucus from the lungs. Also, ammonium chloride is used as a urine acidifier in the treatment of some kidney diseases and urinary tract infections. By changing the pH of urine, this substance helps in better elimination of waste materials from the body and prevents the formation of kidney stones.
9- Other uses of Ammonium chloride Nushadir salt is used in hair shampoo as a thickening agent in ammonium-based surfactant systems, such as ammonium lauryl sulfate. Nushadir salt is used in textile and leather industry, in dyeing, tanning, fabric printing, woodworking and cotton clustering.
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS OF AMMONIUM CHLORIDE
Ammonium chloride can have negative effects on the environment, especially if it is not properly managed and disposed of improperly. This substance dissolves quickly in water and can lead to water and soil pollution. The entry of ammonium chloride into surface and underground waters can lead to chemical changes in aquatic ecosystems and negatively affect the life of plants and animals. Also, the accumulation of this material in the soil can reduce the quality of the soil and damage the roots of plants. To avoid these effects, proper disposal methods and sustainable management should be used. This includes complying with environmental regulations, using protective equipment, and conducting environmental assessments before widespread use of this substance. By following these tips, you can prevent environmental damage and help maintain the balance of ecosystems.
SAFETY OF AMMONIUM CHLORIDE
- If ammonium chloride comes into contact with the skin and eyes, it may cause severe burning, immediately wash the contaminated area with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes.
- If ammonium chloride is ingested by mistake, immediately drink plenty of water and do not force yourself to vomit, and finally consult a doctor.
- In case of inhalation, it may cause coughing and shortness of breath, in this case, go to the open environment as soon as possible and breathe.
- In order to avoid any possible risks when working with Nushadir salt, be sure to use safety equipment such as gloves, glasses and lab coats.
- If any of the above-mentioned events occur, see an emergency doctor immediately.
- Also, when using the oral grade of Nushadir salt, patients should be monitored for symptoms of ammonia toxicity such as cardiac arrhythmia, irregular breathing, sweating, paleness, etc.
- It is forbidden to use Nushadir salt salt in patients with liver and kidney failure.
Ammonium chloride contact with eyes: causes eye irritation.
Ammonium chloride skin contact: May cause skin irritation. May be harmful if absorbed through skin.
Accidental ingestion: Harmful if swallowed. Nushadir salt may irritate the digestive system; Or it may cause systemic toxicity and acidosis.
Inhalation of ammonium chloride: if heated, dust or vapors may irritate the respiratory system of people. These vapors may be harmful if inhaled. Nushadir salt vapor may cause allergies such as asthma. Long-term exposure may cause asthma attacks with shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing, or chest tightness.
Chronic effects: Long-term or repeated skin contact with Nushadir salt may cause dermatitis.
Chemical stability: absorbs moisture or water from the air.
Conditions to Avoid and Incompatibility with Other Materials: Incompatible materials, excessive heat, exposure to moist air or water.
Incompatibility with other substances: acids, bases, silver salts, bromine trifluoride, nitrates, potassium chlorates, carbonates, lead salts
Hazardous decomposition products: carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, ammonia and hydrochloric acid gases.
Hazardous polymerization: May occur.
STORAGE CONDITIONS
For safe and effective storage of ammonium chloride, this material should be stored in a dry, cool and well-ventilated environment. It is necessary to keep this substance away from sources of heat, flame and oxidizing substances to avoid unwanted reactions. Also, ammonium chloride should be stored in strong, chemical-resistant containers, preferably plastic or glass, to prevent moisture and air from entering the package. Access to this material should be limited to people who are fully familiar with safety principles and correct methods of working with chemicals. Correct and comprehensible labeling on packages to inform about risks and safety tips is also of great importance. By observing these conditions, safe and long-term storage of ammonium chloride can be ensured. The conditions of storage and storage of packages of solid Nushadir salt should be such as to minimize the risks. Minimize dust generation and accumulation in warehouses where this material is stored. Working conditions with this material must be accompanied by proper ventilation. Avoid contact with eyes, skin or clothing. Do not eat it or inhale its vapors.
Storage: Store in a dry and cool place. Store in a tightly closed container.
Packing: It can be loaded in containers and trucks to anywhere in the world in 25 kg bags and jumbo bags.
TECHNICAL DATA SHEET OF AMMONIUM CHLORIDE
| NO | Chemical Compositions | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Assay (NH4Cl) | ≥ 99.3% |
| 2 | Moisture (H2O) | ≤ 0.8% |
| 3 | Iron (Fe) | ≤ 0.001% |
| 4 | Heavy Metals (as Pb) | ≤ 0.0005% |
| 5 | Sulfate (SO4) | ≤ 0.05% |
| 6 | pH Value | 4.0 – 5.8 |
| 7 | Loss on Ignition (LOI) | ≤ 0.40% |
or more information, please Contact our Sales Team.
