Ammonium chloride (salmiak) – a versatile chemical compound of industrial importance

Ammonium chloride, also known as salmiak, is one of the oldest and most widely used chemical compounds in industry, agriculture, pharmaceuticals and laboratories. This white, crystalline powder with a slightly salty taste and high hygroscopicity hides enormous technological potential – from nitrogen fertilizers to electrodes in zinc-carbon batteries.

Vichemic offers – Ammonium Chloride is available in high purity form, complying with industrial and laboratory requirements.

What is ammonium chloride?

Ammonium chloride (_NH4Cl) is an inorganic chemical compound formed by the reaction of hydrochloric acid with ammonia. Under natural conditions it occurs as the mineral salmiak, most often near volcanic fumaroles. Industrially, it is obtained on a large scale by synthetic methods, mainly as a by-product in the production of soda ash (Solvay process).

It is an odorless substance, well soluble in water, showing a slightly acidic reaction. Under the influence of high temperature it decomposes, giving off ammonia and hydrogen chloride.

The most important physical and chemical properties

• Sum formula: _NH4Cl
• CAS number: 12125-02-9
• EC no: 235-186-4
• Appearance: white crystalline powder
• Solubility: very good in water, poor in alcohol
• pH of the solution: slightly acidic (about 5-6)
• Melting point: 338 °C
• Decomposition temperature: about 520 °C

Main uses of ammonium chloride

1. fertilizer industry

Ammonium chloride is a valued source of nitrogen in mineral fertilizer production, especially for rice and wheat crops in Asia. As a nitrogen fertilizer, it does not cause soil salinity and is quickly absorbed by plants.

2. Metallurgical industry

In metallurgy, ammonium chloride is used as a flux – it facilitates soldering of metals, prevents surface oxidation and improves adhesion of the binder. It is also a component of baths for hot-dip galvanizing and electroplating.

3. Electronics and batteries

Ammonium chloride plays an important role as an electrolyte in zinc-carbon batteries (dry cells). Its ability to conduct electricity and chemical stability make it still used today in low-voltage batteries.

4. Food industry (with restrictions)

In some countries, ammonium chloride is approved for food use as an acidity regulator (E510) and an ingredient in salmia licorice. In Poland and many other countries, however, use in food is limited or prohibited.

5. Pharmaceutical industry

Salmiak exhibits expectorant and mucolytic properties – it is sometimes an ingredient in some cough syrups and lozenges. It regulates the viscosity of mucus and facilitates its removal from the respiratory tract.

6. Chemical and analytical industry

Ammonium chloride is used in analytical reactions, such as in qualitative analysis of metal ions and as a component of ammonium buffers. It is also an indicator of the presence of chlorine ions.

Storage and security

Despite its wide use, ammonium chloride requires careful handling:

• Highly hygroscopic product – requires storage in airtight, dry containers
• In contact with skin and eyes may cause irritation
• Do not mix with strong bases and oxidizers
• High temperatures can cause decomposition with the release of harmful gases

Always follow the recommendations of the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) and use personal protective equipment.

Chemical curiosities

• In alchemy, salmiak was one of the basic “salt of the philosopher’s stones” – it was believed to have purifying properties
• In the Middle Ages it was used to clean precious metals, including gold and silver
• In the 19th century it was used to make explosive powders

Summary

Ammonium chloride is a versatile raw material that is used in almost every industry – from agriculture and metallurgy to pharmaceuticals and electrical engineering. The product offered by Vichemic – Ammonium Chloride meets the highest purity standards and is ready for technological and laboratory applications.

Take a look at the offer at vichemic.co.uk/offer and choose solutions tailored to your industrial needs.