Ammonia: Properties, Applications, and Specifications
Ammonia is a colorless gas with a pungent odor, commonly used in various industrial and agricultural applications. In this article, we will discuss the properties, applications, and specifications of ammonia.
PROPERTIES
Ammonia has a chemical formula of NH3, a boiling point of -33.34 °C, and a melting point of -77.73 °C. It is highly soluble in water, forming a strongly alkaline solution. Ammonia is a flammable gas and can form explosive mixtures with air. Its density is approximately 0.769 g/mL at standard conditions.
APPLICATION
Ammonia is widely used in various industries, including agriculture, refrigeration, and chemical manufacturing. As a fertilizer, ammonia is an important source of nitrogen for crops. It is also used in the production of numerous chemicals, such as ammonium nitrate, urea, and various other nitrogen-containing compounds. In refrigeration systems, ammonia is used as a refrigerant due to its high refrigeration capacity and low environmental impact. Additionally, ammonia is used as a reducing agent in the production of metals such as nickel and iron.
SPECIFICATION
- Chemical formula: NH3
- Purity: > 99.5%
- Moisture content: < 0.2% by weight
- Total acidity: < 0.2 ppm
- Residue after evaporation: < 0.01% by weight
- Flammability limit: 16% by volume in air
These specifications ensure the safe production, handling, and use of ammonia in various industrial and agricultural applications, as deviations from these values could lead to potential hazards such as corrosion, blockage of equipment, or fire and explosion hazards.