Anhydrous ammonia is ammonia (NH3) without water. It exists as a colorless gas at ambient conditions, though it is often stored as a pressurized liquid or under refrigerated/high-pressure conditions for use as a fertilizer and industrial chemical. It has a sharp, pungent odor and can cause severe irritation or tissue damage upon contact or inhalation, especially in moist tissues such as eyes, lungs, and skin. Handling and storage require stringent safety measures due to its caustic nature and potential for frostbite from its cryogenic temperature when released. Key points
- Definition and form: Anhydrous ammonia contains no water (NH3 only) and is typically stored under pressure or at low temperatures to keep it as a liquid for shipping and application. [Anhydrous ammonia is ammonia without water](javascript:void(0))
- Uses: It is a major source of nitrogen fertilizer and is used in various industrial processes, including plastics production and certain chemical syntheses.
- Health and safety: Exposure can cause respiratory irritation, chemical burns, and frostbite; inhalation or contact requires immediate decontamination and medical assessment. Operators follow strict safety protocols and use appropriate PPE.
- Risks and incidents: Releases or leaks can pose serious hazards; communities and responders rely on AEGL guidelines and regulatory guidance to manage risk.
If you’d like, I can tailor this to a specific context (e.g., chemical safety guidelines for a lab, agricultural use and handling on a farm, or regulatory considerations in a particular country).
