Ammonium chloride: versatile helper in household and industry
Ammonium chloride is a chemical substance used in a variety of applications – from household to industry. In this blog post, we take a closer look at this useful salt, its properties, and its diverse applications.
What is Ammonium Chloride?
Ammonium chloride, also known as salmiak, is a chemical compound consisting of ammonia (NH3) and hydrochloric acid (HCl). It is a white, crystalline powder with a characteristic odor. Ammonium chloride is highly soluble in water and has a slightly acidic taste.
Chemical Formula and Structure
The chemical formula of ammonium chloride is NH4Cl. The ammonium ion (NH4+) is bound to the chloride ion (Cl-). This ionic bond gives ammonium chloride its crystalline structure.
Historical Use
Ammonium chloride was already used in ancient Egypt and ancient Greece. Back then, it was obtained from the ash of camel dung and used, for example, as a mordant in textile dyeing. Ammonium chloride was also used in medicine, for instance as an expectorant to promote mucus expulsion.
Applications of Ammonium Chloride
Nowadays, ammonium chloride is found in a variety of products and industrial processes. Here are some of the main areas of application:
Household and Cleaning
In households, ammonium chloride is used as an additive in cleaning agents. It supports degreasing and the removal of dirt on surfaces. Ammonium chloride can be found, for example, in lime cleaners, scouring agents, and glass cleaners.
Soldering and Welding
In the metal industry, ammonium chloride is an important component of fluxes for soldering and welding. It removes oxide layers from metal surfaces, enabling better adhesion of the solder material.
Pharmacy and medicine
Ammonium chloride also has applications in pharmacy and medicine. It is used as an expectorant to facilitate mucus clearance in the airways. It is also found in nasal sprays and throat lozenges.
Photography
In analog photography, ammonium chloride was formerly used as a component of developer solutions. It helped reduce silver halide crystals on the film material, making the latent image visible.
Agriculture
In agriculture, ammonium chloride serves as a fertilizer additive. It increases the nitrogen content in the soil and thus promotes plant growth. It is also used in animal feed.
Industry
In industrial processes, ammonium chloride is used in many ways. For example, it is used as a flame retardant, humectant, pickling agent, and auxiliary in electroplating.
Properties and safety of ammonium chloride
Ammonium chloride has some interesting chemical and physical properties that explain its versatility:
Physical properties
- White, crystalline powder with characteristic odor
- Well soluble in water, slightly acidic taste
- Melting point at 340 °C, boiling point at 520 °C
Chemical Properties
- Ionic compound of ammonium ion (NH4+) and chloride ion (Cl-)
- Reacts acidic in aqueous solution (pH about 5)
- Thermally unstable, decomposes upon heating into ammonia and hydrochloric acid
Safety instructions
- Ammonium chloride is safe for health when used properly.
- Inhalation or ingestion can cause irritation. Protective measures such as gloves and respiratory protection are recommended.
- Toxic fumes are produced when heated, so caution is advised.
- Ammonium chloride is non-flammable but can react upon contact with oxidizing agents.
Conclusion: Versatile helper in household and industry
Ammonium chloride is a chemical all-rounder used in numerous applications – from household to industry. Its properties as a cleaning agent, flux, fertilizer, and much more make it a valuable and versatile auxiliary substance. With proper handling and safety measures, ammonium chloride can be used safely and effectively.
