Ammonia, with the formula NH₃, is a colorless gas with a sharp, pungent odor. It is corrosive to human tissue, toxic when inhaled, and flammable under certain conditions. According to its Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS), it may ignite at low temperatures and can cause severe irritation to the eyes, throat, and lung mucosa. Liquid ammonia may cause chemical burns on the skin upon direct contact.
Ammonia has a wide range of industrial uses. It is primarily used in the production of nitrogen-based fertilizers and nitric acid, as well as in the manufacture of ammonium salts, urea, dyes, pharmaceuticals, and plastics. Additionally, since it can be easily liquefied under pressure and has a high heat of vaporization, it is widely used as a refrigerant gas. This makes it an important component in both the chemical and energy sectors.
The Ammonia MSDS (Safety Data Sheet) provides the technical information necessary for safe handling and transportation of the product. Key sections include product identification, hazards, first-aid measures, fire-fighting methods, accidental release measures, handling and storage conditions, exposure limits, personal protective equipment (PPE), physical–chemical properties, and transportation–regulatory information.
| Corrosive and toxic effects: | Ammonia causes strong irritation to the eyes, skin, and respiratory tract. High concentrations may lead to respiratory distress and pulmonary edema. |
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| Flammability and explosion: | It may ignite at low temperatures. Gas accumulation in confined spaces poses an explosion hazard. |
| If inhaled: | The person should be moved to fresh air immediately; oxygen or artificial respiration should be administered if necessary. Medical attention should not be delayed. |
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| Skin or eye contact: | Rinse with plenty of lukewarm water for at least 15 minutes; do not use hot water. Seek immediate medical attention for serious burns. |
Since ammonia is highly soluble in water, water is the most effective extinguishing agent. Responding personnel must wear a positive-pressure breathing apparatus and full protective clothing. Cylinders may explode if exposed to heat; therefore, surrounding cylinders must be cooled with water.
In case of leakage, the area should be evacuated immediately, ignition sources removed, and the environment ventilated. Escaping gas can be collected by directing it into a water-filled container at a ratio of 1 part ammonia to 10 parts water.
During storage, cylinders must be kept upright and secured against tipping; the temperature should not fall below –40 °C or exceed 45 °C. Storage areas must be well ventilated and kept away from open flames or heat sources.
| Occupational exposure limits: | ACGIH TLV-TWA 25 ppm, OSHA PEL-TWA 50 ppm. |
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| Personal protective equipment: | Full-face respiratory protection, supplied-air system, chemical-resistant gloves (e.g., butyl rubber), face shield–goggles, and appropriate protective clothing are recommended. Adequate ventilation must be ensured. |
| Physical state: | Colorless gas with a sharp odor |
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| Boiling point: | –33 °C |
| Melting point: | –77.7 °C |
| Auto-ignition temperature: | 630 °C |
| Explosion limits: | 15–28% (in air) |
| Gas density: | 0.7714 g/L (0 °C, 1 bar) |
| Solubility in water: | Approximately 530 g/L (20 °C) |
These values represent essential technical data for safety procedures and operational planning.
Ammonia is classified under ADR with the number UN 1005: “Ammonia, Anhydrous, Liquefied”.
| Class: | 2 |
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| Code: | 2TC |
| Label: | 2.3 + 8 (Toxic, Corrosive Gas) |
| Risk/Safety phrases: | R10, R23, R34, R50; S7/9, S16, S18, S26, S33, S36/37/39, S45, S61. |
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