- What is ammonia?
- Where is ammonia used?
- Properties of ammonia
- Instructions for use of ammonia
- Precautions and safety
- Contraindications and side effects
- Alternatives to ammonia
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can ammonia be used to clean the kitchen?
- What is the difference between ammonia and ammonium?
- What is an ammonia solution for?
- What is the name of an aqueous solution of ammonia?
- What should you do if ammonia solution gets on your skin?
- How long does ammonia spirit last after opening?
- What can replace ammonia spirit at home?
Ammonia is a substance that is widely used in household, medical, industrial, and agricultural applications. Its popularity is due to the fact that it has a number of unique properties: irritating and antiseptic effects, the ability to react with many chemicals, as well as high volatility and pungent odor. In medicine, you can most often find an ammonia solution called ammonia.
Before using ammonia in any form, it is important to read the instructions and take into account all the features of use. Improper use of this substance can lead to serious health consequences, including burns, poisoning or allergic reactions. That is why it is so important to know the basic properties of ammonia, how to store it safely and how to use it, as well as follow all recommended precautions.
What is ammonia?
Ammonia is a colorless gas with a pungent specific odor, which under normal conditions is easily soluble in water, forming an aqueous solution – ammonia. Due to its volatility and ability to dissolve in moisture, ammonia is actively used in various spheres of life, ranging from medicines to chemical industries.
In addition to the gaseous form, ammonia can also be found in the form of salts (for example, ammonium salts). But most often in everyday life we deal with an aqueous solution of ammonia, the strength of which may differ depending on the purpose of application.
Chemical formula and physical properties
The chemical formula of ammonia is NH₃. The molecule consists of one nitrogen atom and three hydrogen atoms. At normal room temperature and pressure, ammonia is in a gaseous state, but when liquefied, it forms a colorless liquid with a pungent odor.
The physical properties of ammonia include a low boiling point (−33.34 °C) and high solubility in water. It is the ammonia solution in water that has become widespread in the household sphere and medicine, since it is more convenient to use than pure gas.
Varieties of ammonia
The most well-known form of ammonia in everyday life is ammonia (an aqueous solution of different concentrations). In industry, not only an aqueous solution is used, but also anhydrous ammonia under high pressure.
In addition, there are various ammonia-based compounds (ammonium salts) that can act as fertilizers, food additives or chemical reagents. Each type and form has its own characteristics, as well as certain requirements for storage and use.
Where is ammonia used?
Ammonia is widely used both in everyday life and in large industries. It is used in the chemical industry to produce nitric acid, fertilizers, dyes, as well as in many other reactions. Experts appreciate it for its antiseptic and irritating properties that are used in medicine.
In everyday life, the easiest way to find ammonia is in a first-aid kit, where it helps to bring a person to his senses in case of fainting or reduce pain after an insect bite (if the rules of use are followed). In addition, it is sometimes used when cleaning, especially if you need to remove unpleasant odors or difficult stains.
Use in medicine (ammonia)
Ammonia is best known as a means to bring a person out of a fainting state. Its pungent smell irritates the receptors of the mucous membranes, which contributes to the rapid return of consciousness.
In addition, ammonia is sometimes used externally as an antiseptic or distraction for insect bites. However, such methods of use require caution and strict adherence to the instructions, as severe irritation of the skin and mucous membranes is possible.
Industrial Uses
In the industrial sector, ammonia is used to produce fertilizers, nitric acid, various ammonium salts, and many other chemical compounds. Anhydrous ammonia serves as a refrigerant in refrigeration and air conditioning systems in the food industry.
It is also in demand in the textile industry (dyeing and processing of fabrics), in the manufacture of dyes, explosives and some medicines. Most of the world’s ammonia production is used for the needs of chemical industries and the agro-industrial complex.
Ammonia in agriculture
In agriculture, ammonia is the basic raw material for the production of mineral fertilizers (such as ammonium nitrate, urea). Such fertilizers play an important role in increasing yields and improving soil quality.
In addition, some farmers use anhydrous ammonia for direct application to the soil. It serves as a source of nitrogen and helps plants get the nutrients they need. It is important to follow the correct dosage, as an excessive amount of ammonia can burn the roots of plants and worsen the condition of the soil.
Properties of ammonia
Ammonia has unique properties due to its chemical structure. It not only causes irritation of the mucous membranes, but is also able to effectively inhibit the growth and reproduction of bacteria. This makes it useful in many areas of life, including medicine and everyday life.
At the same time, its properties require careful handling. Ammonia gas can easily enter the respiratory tract, irritate the eyes and mucous membranes. When interacting with the skin, concentrated solutions can cause chemical burns.
Antiseptic and irritant effect
Ammonia in certain concentrations shows antiseptic properties, thanks to which it can stop the growth of some microbes on the surface of the skin. However, if the solution is too concentrated, its antiseptic effect is combined with a strong irritating effect, which can lead to burns.
In medicine, it is the irritating effect of ammonia that is used to stimulate breathing and cardiac activity: a pungent smell irritates receptors, causing reflex excitation of the respiratory and vasomotor centers.
Effects on the human body
When inhaled, ammonia in small quantities can cause a short-term activation of reflexes: a person loses consciousness less often, his breathing becomes faster. However, at high concentrations in the air, it can lead to burns of the mucous membranes, suffocation and poisoning.
Contact with the skin of a concentrated solution is also dangerous: redness, rash, and in severe cases, a chemical burn are possible. If ammonia gets into the eyes, it is necessary to urgently rinse them with plenty of water and consult a doctor.
Instructions for use of ammonia
Before using ammonia, it is important to carefully read the official instructions for the drug. Do not neglect restrictions on dosage and method of administration. If there is any doubt about the correctness of actions, it is better to consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Remember that ammonia is a medicine, and using it “just in case” may be unjustified. Ammonia should be used only as directed, strictly observing precautions so as not to harm health.
How to use for fainting
- Make sure that the person is really fainting, and not a serious injury or other critical condition.
- Soak a piece of cotton wool or gauze in ammonia, but do not overdo it so that the smell is not too strong.
- Bring the cotton wool to the person’s nose, avoiding direct contact with the skin and mucous membranes.
The pungent smell stimulates breathing and causes a reflex awakening. If a person does not come to his senses or has serious symptoms (convulsions, profuse salivation, vomiting), it is necessary to call an ambulance.
Can it be used externally for insect bites?
Ammonia is sometimes used to reduce itching and irritation after insect bites. However, before doing so, be sure to make sure that there are no open wounds and severe inflammation. The product is applied in a minimum amount to a cotton swab or disk, which is then gently applied to the bite site for a short time.
If you notice that the skin area is very red or an allergic reaction occurs, stop the procedure and rinse the area with clean water. In such cases, it is safer to see a doctor, especially if you have a severe reaction or a tendency to allergies.
Cleaning and household needs
Ammonia is sometimes used for cleaning and odor removal. For example, it copes well with some greasy stains and can eliminate persistent unpleasant odors in the room.
For household purposes, ammonia is often diluted with water in a certain proportion (usually a few drops per liter of water). When using the solution, make sure that the room is ventilated so that ammonia vapors do not accumulate in the air.
Precautions and safety
Use extreme caution when handling ammonia. It evaporates easily, so its vapors can spread quickly indoors. In case of contact with the skin or mucous membranes, irritation and chemical burns are possible.
Always avoid inhaling concentrated vapors as this can lead to irritation and swelling of the airways. In case of contact with eyes, rinse them immediately with plenty of cold water, and then consult a doctor.
How to store ammonia at home
- Keep ammonia in a tightly closed bottle, away from sunlight and heat sources.
- Keep it out of the reach of children and pets, preferably in a lockable locker.
- Keep track of the expiration date and dispose of the expired drug.
Compliance with these rules will minimize the risk of accidental poisoning or burns.
What to do in case of vapor poisoning
If a person has inhaled ammonia vapors, the first thing to do is to take him out into the fresh air and provide an inflow of clean air. If you have difficulty breathing or severe weakness, call an ambulance immediately.
Before the arrival of doctors, you can give the victim warm water or tea (provided that he is conscious and can swallow). If you have a cough, pain in the eyes or dizziness, do not try to treat it yourself, be sure to wait for qualified help.
Use in ventilated areas
The easiest way to reduce the harmful effects of ammonia is to ventilate the room. Open windows or a switched on hood help to quickly remove vapors.
If you are working with an ammonia solution in an enclosed space (such as the bathroom when cleaning), provide forced ventilation. This is especially important in case of large volumes of mortar or long-term operation.
Contraindications and side effects
Although ammonia can be useful, there are situations in which its use may be contraindicated. We must not forget about individual intolerance and special conditions of the body, when any pungent odors or chemicals can be harmful.
Possible side effects include heart palpitations, dizziness, headache and severe irritation of the mucous membranes. Therefore, it is important to always be careful and follow the instructions for use.
Who should not use ammonia
- People with severe cardiovascular diseases and serious respiratory disorders.
- Patients with convulsive disorders (e.g., epilepsy) or increased nervous excitability.
- In case of allergy or hypersensitivity to ammonia.
If you have chronic diseases, consult your doctor before using ammonia.
Allergic reactions and irritations
Ammonia can cause allergic manifestations: rash, redness, itching, lacrimation. If you notice these symptoms, stop using the substance and rinse the skin area with water. In case of a serious reaction (difficulty breathing, swelling), seek medical help immediately.
In some people, even short-term inhalation of ammonia vapor can provoke a cough, sore throat and runny nose. To avoid such cases, it is recommended to carry out any manipulations with ammonia in well-ventilated rooms.
Alternatives to ammonia
Despite its wide popularity, there are situations when you can avoid the use of ammonia by using other methods and means. For example, in everyday life there are environmentally friendly cleaning products that do not have such a pungent smell and do not irritate the mucous membranes.
If we are talking about bringing a person out of fainting, it is worth remembering that the primary measure should always be to help restore normal blood circulation: give the body a horizontal position, raise the legs, provide access to fresh air. Sometimes this is enough for a person to come to his senses without using any drugs.
Modern remedies for fainting
Today, drugs aimed at comprehensive support for a sharp drop in blood pressure or fainting are increasingly used in medicine. These include medications that regulate vascular tone, stabilize blood pressure and restore the volume of circulating blood.
In addition, there are non-invasive ways to help – special breathing exercises and massage techniques that help stimulate blood circulation. Before choosing a drug or method, it is worth consulting with a specialist to rule out possible contraindications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can ammonia be used to clean the kitchen?
Yes, you can, but with caution. Ammonia dissolves grease well and removes some types of stains, so it is used to clean stoves, hoods, tiles. However, it is important to ensure ventilation when working: open windows or a working hood will help to quickly remove vapors.
Also, do not forget about personal protective equipment – use gloves and, if necessary, a mask. In case of contact with the skin, immediately rinse the contact site with water. Store ammonia in a safe place, away from food, to prevent accidental ingestion.
What is the difference between ammonia and ammonium?
Ammonia (NH₃) is a gas or aqueous solution of a gas, whereas ammonium (NH₄⁺) is an ion that is most commonly found in various salts (e.g., ammonium nitrate, ammonium sulphate). In chemical reactions and in nature, ammonia can be converted to ammonium and vice versa, depending on the conditions (pH, concentration, presence of other substances).
In practice, this means that ammonia is more often used as a gaseous product or solution, and ammonium is used as solid salts used in fertilizers and other chemical processes.
What is an ammonia solution for?
Ammonia solution, or ammonia, is needed to perform various tasks: in medicine (reviving fainting, antiseptic), in everyday life (cleaning surfaces, removing odors), in industry (participation in chemical reactions).
The scope of its application is very wide, but in all cases it is important to remember to be careful and respect the properties of ammonia, which can be dangerous if used incorrectly.
What is the name of an aqueous solution of ammonia?
An aqueous solution of ammonia is usually called “ammonia”. This is a solution of different concentrations, in pharmacies there is mainly a 10% solution. In everyday life, it is often used as a remedy for fainting and to treat minor skin injuries (in the absence of more suitable antiseptics).
In industry, more concentrated solutions can be used, which require even more stringent safety measures during operation and storage.
What should you do if ammonia solution gets on your skin?
Immediately rinse the affected area with plenty of warm running water; you may gently wash with soap. Then apply a soothing cream or panthenol, and if severe irritation or a burn develops, seek medical attention. Also avoid rough rubbing of the skin so as not to worsen the injury.
How long does ammonia spirit last after opening?
Once opened, ammonia spirit retains its properties for about 1–2 years if the cap is tightly closed and it is stored in a cool, dark place (for example, in a cupboard away from direct sunlight). If the solution changes color or sediment appears, it is best to purchase a new bottle.
What can replace ammonia spirit at home?
You can replace it with a weak vinegar solution (1–2 tbsp of table vinegar per glass of water) or a cotton pad with a few drops of peppermint or eucalyptus essential oil as a mild irritant to stimulate breathing. If essential oils do not help, an alternative is a swab moistened with an herbal infusion of sage or rosemary.
Literature:
- The current situation in the use of ammonia as a sustainable energy source and its industrial potential (https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2666086522000492)
- What is Ammonia? Properties, processes, and applications in Industry (https://inspenet.com/en/articulo/what-is-ammonia-properties-applications/)
- The Facts About Ammonia (https://www.health.ny.gov/environmental/emergency/chemical_terrorism/ammonia_tech.htm)
Author: Natalia Kandybey, Candidate of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Quality Director of the Viola Pharmaceutical Factory
