Anhydrous ammonia liquid is the liquid form of ammonia (NH₃) stored under pressure. Unlike gaseous ammonia, the liquid form allows easy transportation and large-scale industrial use. It is widely used in agriculture, chemical manufacturing, and refrigeration due to its high nitrogen content and strong reactivity.
What Is Anhydrous Ammonia Liquid?
Anhydrous ammonia liquid is ammonia without water, stored at low temperature or under high pressure to maintain its liquid state. It vaporizes rapidly when released, making it suitable for injection into soil as fertilizer or for use as a raw material in chemical production.
Main Applications
1. Agriculture
- Direct Fertilizer Injection: Supplies nitrogen to crops efficiently.
- Fertilizer Production: Feedstock for urea, ammonium nitrate, and ammonium sulfate.
2. Industrial Uses
- Refrigeration: Serves as a cooling agent in industrial refrigeration systems.
- Chemical Manufacturing: Produces nitric acid, plastics, synthetic fibers, and explosives.
- Water Treatment: Used to control pH and disinfect water.
3. Environmental Applications
- Emission Control: Reduces nitrogen oxide emissions in power plants via selective catalytic reduction (SCR) systems.
Storage and Handling of Anhydrous Ammonia Liquid
- Must be stored in certified pressure tanks with safety valves.
- Keep away from heat, sparks, and incompatible chemicals.
- Transport following strict hazardous material regulations.
- Use protective equipment such as gloves, goggles, and respirators when handling.
Safety Precautions
Because anhydrous ammonia liquid is corrosive and toxic:
- Only trained personnel should handle it.
- Ensure proper ventilation in storage and usage areas.
- Monitor for leaks and have emergency response plans in place.
