ammoniumnitrate

This chemical does not meet GHS hazard criteria for 2.3% (25 of 1096) of reports.

H272 (94.2%): May intensify fire; oxidizer [Danger Oxidizing liquids; Oxidizing solids]

H319 (95.5%): Causes serious eye irritation [Warning Serious eye damage/eye irritation]

H335 (10.2%): May cause respiratory irritation [Warning Specific target organ toxicity, single exposure; Respiratory tract irritation]

P210, P220, P261, P264+P265, P271, P280, P304+P340, P305+P351+P338, P319, P337+P317, P370+P378, P403+P233, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Aggregated GHS information provided per 1096 reports by companies from 30 notifications to the ECHA C&L Inventory. Each notification may be associated with multiple companies.

Reported as not meeting GHS hazard criteria per 25 of 1096 reports by companies.

There are 29 notifications provided by 1071 of 1096 reports by companies with hazard statement code(s).

Information may vary between notifications depending on impurities, additives, and other factors. The percentage value in parenthesis indicates the notified classification ratio from companies that provide hazard codes. Only hazard codes with percentage values above 10% are shown. For more detailed information, please visit ECHA C&L website.

Not Classified

Reported as not meeting GHS hazard criteria by 1 of 1 companies. For more detailed information, please visit ECHA C&L website.

H272: May intensify fire; oxidizer [Danger Oxidizing liquids; Oxidizing solids]

H319: Causes serious eye irritation [Warning Serious eye damage/eye irritation]

H372: Causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure [Danger Specific target organ toxicity, repeated exposure]

P210, P220, P260, P264, P264+P265, P270, P280, P305+P351+P338, P319, P337+P317, P370+P378, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

H370: Causes damage to organs [Danger Specific target organ toxicity, single exposure]

P210, P220, P260, P264, P270, P280, P308+P316, P319, P321, P370+P378, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

H320: Causes eye irritation [Warning Serious eye damage/eye irritation]

H335: May cause respiratory irritation [Warning Specific target organ toxicity, single exposure; Respiratory tract irritation]

H371: May cause damage to organs [Warning Specific target organ toxicity, single exposure]

P210, P220, P260, P261, P264, P264+P265, P270, P271, P280, P304+P340, P305+P351+P338, P308+P316, P319, P337+P317, P370+P378, P403+P233, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

H303: May be harmful if swallowed [Warning Acute toxicity, oral]

H315: Causes skin irritation [Warning Skin corrosion/irritation]

P210, P220, P260, P261, P264, P264+P265, P270, P271, P280, P301+P317, P302+P352, P304+P340, P305+P351+P338, P308+P316, P319, P321, P332+P317, P337+P317, P362+P364, P370+P378, P403+P233, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

P264+P265, P280, P305+P351+P338, and P337+P317 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Fresh air, rest. Seek medical attention if you feel unwell.

Rinse skin with plenty of water or shower. Remove contaminated clothes.

First rinse with plenty of water for several minutes (remove contact lenses if easily possible), then refer for medical attention.

Rinse mouth. Refer for medical attention .

Excerpt from ERG Guide 140 [Oxidizers]:

Refer to the "General First Aid" section. Specific First Aid: Contaminated clothing may be a fire risk when dry. (ERG, 2024)

Excerpt from ERG Guide 112 [Explosives - Division 1.1, 1.2, 1.3 or 1.5]:

Refer to the "General First Aid" section. (ERG, 2024)

General First Aid:

· Call 911 or emergency medical service.

· Ensure that medical personnel are aware of the material(s) involved, take precautions to protect themselves and avoid contamination.

· Move victim to fresh air if it can be done safely.

· Administer oxygen if breathing is difficult.

· If victim is not breathing:

-- DO NOT perform mouth-to-mouth resuscitation; the victim may have ingested or inhaled the substance.

-- If equipped and pulse detected, wash face and mouth, then give artificial respiration using a proper respiratory medical device (bag-valve mask, pocket mask equipped with a one-way valve or other device).

-- If no pulse detected or no respiratory medical device available, provide continuous compressions. Conduct a pulse check every two minutes or monitor for any signs of spontaneous respirations.

· Remove and isolate contaminated clothing and shoes.

· For minor skin contact, avoid spreading material on unaffected skin.

· In case of contact with substance, remove immediately by flushing skin or eyes with running water for at least 20 minutes.

· For severe burns, immediate medical attention is required.

· Effects of exposure (inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact) to substance may be delayed.

· Keep victim calm and warm.

· Keep victim under observation.

· For further assistance, contact your local Poison Control Center.

· Note: Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Life Support (ALS) should be done by trained professionals.

Specific First Aid:

· Contaminated clothing may be a fire risk when dry.

In Canada, an Emergency Response Assistance Plan (ERAP) may be required for this product. Please consult the shipping paper and/or the "ERAP" section.

Excerpt from ERG Guide 140 [Oxidizers]:

SMALL FIRE: Use water. Do not use dry chemicals or foams. CO2 or Halon® may provide limited control.

LARGE FIRE: Flood fire area with water from a distance. Do not move cargo or vehicle if cargo has been exposed to heat. If it can be done safely, move undamaged containers away from the area around the fire.

FIRE INVOLVING TANKS, RAIL TANK CARS OR HIGHWAY TANKS: For ammonium nitrate products: Do not fight cargo fire. Withdraw, evacuate and isolate area for at least 1600 meters (1 mile). Treat as an explosive (ERG Guide 112). Do not enter area for 24 hours or until expert advice has been provided. Fight fire from maximum distance or use unmanned master stream devices or monitor nozzles. Cool containers with flooding quantities of water until well after fire is out. ALWAYS stay away from tanks in direct contact with flames. For massive fire, use unmanned master stream devices or monitor nozzles; if this is impossible, withdraw from area and let fire burn. (ERG, 2024)

Excerpt from ERG Guide 112 [Explosives - Division 1.1, 1.2, 1.3 or 1.5]:

CARGO FIRE: DO NOT fight fire when fire reaches cargo! Cargo may EXPLODE! Stop all traffic and clear the area for at least 1600 meters (1 mile) in all directions and let burn. Do not move cargo or vehicle if cargo has been exposed to heat.

TIRE OR VEHICLE FIRE: Use plenty of water - FLOOD it! If water is not available, use CO2, dry chemical or dirt. If possible, and WITHOUT RISK, use unmanned master stream devices or monitor nozzles from maximum distance to prevent fire from spreading to cargo area. Pay special attention to tire fires as re-ignition may occur. Stand by, at a safe distance, with extinguisher ready for possible re-ignition. (ERG, 2024)

Use water in large amounts. NO other agents. In case of fire in the surroundings, use appropriate extinguishing media. In case of fire: keep drums, etc., cool by spraying with water. Combat fire from a sheltered position.

Cool exposed containers with water. Continue cooling after fire has been extinguished.

Use flooding quantities of water. Fight fire from protected location or maximum possible distance. Approach fire from upwind to avoid hazardous vapors & toxic decomposition products. Fire situations may require evacuation.

If material on fire or involved in fire: Dangerously explosive. Do not fight fires in a cargo of explosives. Evacuate area and let burn. /explosives/

If material on fire or involved in fire: Flood with water. Cool all affected containers with flooding quantities of water. Apply water from as far a distance as possible. /oxidizer and liquid (oxidizer)/

For more Fire Fighting Procedures (Complete) data for AMMONIUM NITRATE (7 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

If subjected to strong shocks or heated under confinement causing a pressure buildup, may undergo detonation.

Ammonium nitrate by itself does not burn, but in contact with other combustible materials, it increases the fire hazard. It can support and intensify a fire even in the absence of air. Fires involving ammonium nitrate can release toxic nitrogen oxides and ammonia. A fire involving ammonium nitrate in an enclosed space could lead to an explosion. Closed containers may rupture violently when heated.

During a fire in a facility where ammonium nitrate is present, the ammonium nitrate can become hot and molten which makes the material very sensitive to shock and detonation, particularly if it becomes contaminated with incompatible material such as combustibles, flammable liquids, acids, chlorates, chlorides, sulfur, metals, charcoal, sawdust, etc. If a molten mass becomes confined (e.g., in drains, pipes or machinery), it can explode.

Solid ammonium nitrate readily absorbs moisture, which can lead to caking, self-compression and self confinement. This in turn increases susceptibility to explosion in a fire.

· CALL 911. Then call emergency response telephone number on shipping paper. If shipping paper not available or no answer, refer to appropriate telephone number listed on the inside back cover.

· Keep unauthorized personnel away.

· Stay upwind, uphill and/or upstream.

· Ventilate closed spaces before entering, but only if properly trained and equipped.

· Keep combustibles (wood, paper, oil, etc.) away from spilled material.

· Do not touch damaged containers or spilled material unless wearing appropriate protective clothing.

· Stop leak if you can do it without risk.

· Do not get water inside containers.

Small Dry Spill

· With clean shovel, place material into clean, dry container and cover loosely; move containers from spill area.

Small Liquid Spill

· Use a non-combustible material like vermiculite or sand to soak up the product and place into a container for later disposal.

Large Spill

· Dike far ahead of liquid spill for later disposal.

Excerpt from ERG Guide 140 [Oxidizers]:

IMMEDIATE PRECAUTIONARY MEASURE: Isolate spill or leak area in all directions for at least 50 meters (150 feet) for liquids and at least 25 meters (75 feet) for solids.

LARGE SPILL: Consider initial downwind evacuation for at least 100 meters (330 feet).

FIRE: If tank, rail tank car or highway tank is involved in a fire, ISOLATE for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions; also, consider initial evacuation for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions. If ammonium nitrate products are in a tank, rail car or truck and involved in a fire, ISOLATE for 1600 meters (1 mile) in all directions; also, initiate evacuation including emergency responders for 1600 meters (1 mile) in all directions. (ERG, 2024)

Excerpt from ERG Guide 112 [Explosives - Division 1.1, 1.2, 1.3 or 1.5]:

IMMEDIATE PRECAUTIONARY MEASURE: Isolate spill or leak area immediately for at least 500 meters (1/3 mile) in all directions.

LARGE SPILL: Consider initial evacuation for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions.

FIRE: If rail car or trailer is involved in a fire, ISOLATE for 1600 meters (1 mile) in all directions; also, initiate evacuation including emergency responders for 1600 meters (1 mile) in all directions. (ERG, 2024)

Immediate precautionary measure

· Isolate spill or leak area in all directions for at least 50 meters (150 feet) for liquids and at least 25 meters (75 feet) for solids.

· Consider initial downwind evacuation for at least 100 meters (330 feet).

· If tank, rail tank car or highway tank is involved in a fire, ISOLATE for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions; also, consider initial evacuation for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions.

· If ammonium nitrate products are in a tank, rail car or truck and involved in a fire, ISOLATE for 1600 meters (1 mile) in all directions; also, initiate evacuation including emergency responders for 1600 meters (1 mile) in all directions.

Personal protection: particulate filter respirator adapted to the airborne concentration of the substance. Sweep spilled substance into covered non-combustible containers. Store and dispose of according to local regulations. Wash away remainder with plenty of water.

Prompt cleanup and removal are necessary in order to prevent contamination with combustible materials.

SRP: Wastewater from contaminant suppression, cleaning of protective clothing/equipment, or contaminated sites should be contained and evaluated for subject chemical or decomposition product concentrations. Concentrations shall be lower than applicable environmental discharge or disposal criteria. Alternatively, pretreatment and/or discharge to a permitted wastewater treatment facility is acceptable only after review by the governing authority and assurance that "pass through" violations will not occur. Due consideration shall be given to remediation worker exposure (inhalation, dermal and ingestion) as well as fate during treatment, transfer and disposal. If it is not practicable to manage the chemical in this fashion, it must be evaluated in accordance with EPA 40 CFR Part 261, specifically Subpart B, in order to determine the appropriate local, state and federal requirements for disposal.

Remove slowly into a large container of water. Add Na2CO3 /sodium carbonate/ slightly by stirring. After 24 hr, decant or siphon into another container. Neutralize with 6 M-HCL /6 M-hydrochloric acid/ ... .

Facilities should be aware of the hazards of ammonium nitrate and ensure that the conditions that may lead to an explosion are not present. Actions that may help to prevent explosions include: (1) Avoid heating ammonium nitrate in a confined space (e.g., processes involving ammonium nitrate should be designed to avoid this possibility). (2) Avoid localized heating of ammonium nitrate, potentially leading to development of high temperature areas. (3) Ensure that ammonium nitrate is not exposed to strong shock waves from explosives. (4) Avoid contamination of ammonium nitrate with combustible materials or organic substances such as oils and waxes. (5) Avoid contamination of ammonium nitrate with inorganic materials that may contribute to its sensitivity to explosion, including chlorides and some metals, such as chromium, copper, cobalt, and nickel. (6) Maintain the pH of ammonium nitrate solutions within the safe operating range of the process. In particular, avoid low pH (acidic) conditions.

Store on clean concrete floors, or on wooden pallets, dunnage or on any type of clean floor. When stored directly on a concrete floor, the floor should be covered first with a moisture insulator such as polyethylene sheet. Bags of ammonium nitrate should be stored not less than 30 inches away from the walls of a storage building. The bags should be stacked, and made accessible, with proper ventilation provided. Stacks should be not more than 8 ft wide and 7 ft high. Where applicable, the bags should be kept at least 36 inches from the eaves and from support beams and rafters overhead. Open flames, sparks and other sources of heat should be kept 50 ft away from storage areas of bags. Smoking within 50 ft of storage areas must be prohibited. Emptied bags should be disposed of promptly and properly.

SRP: The scientific literature for the use of contact lenses by industrial workers is inconsistent. The benefits or detrimental effects of wearing contact lenses depend not only upon the substance, but also on factors including the form of the substance, characteristics and duration of the exposure, the uses of other eye protection equipment, and the hygiene of the lenses. However, there may be individual substances whose irritating or corrosive properties are such that the wearing of contact lenses would be harmful to the eye. In those specific cases, contact lenses should not be worn. In any event, the usual eye protection equipment should be worn even when contact lenses are in place.

If material not on fire and not involved in fire: Keep sparks, flames, and other sources of ignition away. /explosives/

For more Preventive Measures (Complete) data for AMMONIUM NITRATE (7 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Excerpt from ERG Guide 140 [Oxidizers]:

Keep combustibles (wood, paper, oil, etc.) away from spilled material. Do not touch damaged containers or spilled material unless wearing appropriate protective clothing. Stop leak if you can do it without risk. Do not get water inside containers.

SMALL DRY SPILL: With clean shovel, place material into clean, dry container and cover loosely; move containers from spill area.

SMALL LIQUID SPILL: Use a non-combustible material like vermiculite or sand to soak up the product and place into a container for later disposal.

LARGE SPILL: Dike far ahead of liquid spill for later disposal. (ERG, 2024)

Excerpt from ERG Guide 112 [Explosives - Division 1.1, 1.2, 1.3 or 1.5]:

ELIMINATE all ignition sources (no smoking, flares, sparks or flames) from immediate area. All equipment used when handling the product must be grounded. Do not touch or walk through spilled material. DO NOT OPERATE RADIO TRANSMITTERS WITHIN 100 METERS (330 FEET) OF ELECTRIC DETONATORS. DO NOT CLEAN-UP OR DISPOSE OF, EXCEPT UNDER SUPERVISION OF A SPECIALIST. (ERG, 2024)

Separated from combustible substances and reducing agents. Dry. Well closed.

Closed containers may rupture violently when heated.

KEEP WELL CLOSED.

Separate from acids, alkalies, reducing agents, combustible materials. Store in a cool, dry, well ventilated location.

Fire protection: Ammonium nitrate storage areas should be equipped with an automatic sprinkler system, or have an automatic fire detection and alarm system if the areas are not continuously occupied. This is especially important when the facility in question is close to the public surrounding the facility. Facilities should NOT store more than 2500 tons of bagged ammonium nitrate without an automatic sprinkler system. An automatic sprinkler system, if installed, should be provided in accordance with NFPA 13, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems. Suitable fire control devices such as hoses and appropriate portable fire extinguishers (ammonium nitrate is an oxidizer and not all fire extinguishers are appropriate) shall be provided throughout the warehouse and loading areas. Water supplies and fire hydrants should be available. Store ammonium nitrate fertilizer in separate buildings or separated by approved fire walls from organic, combustible or reactive materials, such as grains, wood or other organic materials, urea and urea compounds, flammable liquids or gases, corrosive acids, chlorates, chromates nitrites, permanganates or finely divided metals or sulfur. Ammonium nitrate fertilizer should NOT be stored in the same building with explosives or blasting agents unless conditions in ATF's Table of Separation Distances of Ammonium Nitrate and Blasting Agents from Explosives and Blasting Agents, 27 CFR 555.220, are met. Prohibit smoking in ammonium nitrate storage areas.

For more Storage Conditions (Complete) data for AMMONIUM NITRATE (8 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

· Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).

· Wear chemical protective clothing that is specifically recommended by the manufacturer when there is NO RISK OF FIRE.

· Structural firefighters' protective clothing provides thermal protection but only limited chemical protection.

6.7 [mg/m3]

73 [mg/m3]

440 [mg/m3]

Small Fire

· Use water. Do not use dry chemicals or foams. CO2 or Halon® may provide limited control.

Large Fire

· Flood fire area with water from a distance.

· Do not move cargo or vehicle if cargo has been exposed to heat.

· If it can be done safely, move undamaged containers away from the area around the fire.

Fire Involving Tanks, Rail Tank Cars or Highway Tanks

· For ammonium nitrate products: Do not fight cargo fire. Withdraw, evacuate and isolate area for at least 1600 meters (1 mile). Treat as an explosive (GUIDE 112). Do not enter area for 24 hours or until expert advice has been provided.

· Fight fire from maximum distance or use unmanned master stream devices or monitor nozzles.

· Cool containers with flooding quantities of water until well after fire is out.

· ALWAYS stay away from tanks in direct contact with flames.

· For massive fire, use unmanned master stream devices or monitor nozzles; if this is impossible, withdraw from area and let fire burn.

Ammonium Nitrate Security Program; Proposed Rule: This proposed rule would implement anti-terrorism measures to better secure the homeland. The Department of Homeland Security would regulate the sale and transfer of ammonium nitrate pursuant to section 563 of the Fiscal Year 2008 Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act with the purpose of preventing the use of ammonium nitrate in an act of terrorism. This proposed rule seeks comment on both proposed text for such a regulation and on several practical and legal issues integral to the development of an Ammonium Nitrate Security Program.

Evaporation at 20 °C is negligible; a harmful concentration of airborne particles can, however, be reached quickly when dispersed, especially if powdered.

The substance is irritating to the eyes, skin and respiratory tract. The substance may cause effects on the blood. This may result in the formation of methaemoglobin. The effects may be delayed.

Residues of ammonium nitrate are exempted from the requirement of a tolerance when used as a adjuvant/intensifier for herbicides in accordance with good agricultural practice as inert (or occasionally active) ingredients in pesticide formulations applied to growing crops only.

Excerpt from ERG Guide 140 [Oxidizers]:

Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). Wear chemical protective clothing that is specifically recommended by the manufacturer when there is NO RISK OF FIRE. Structural firefighters' protective clothing provides thermal protection but only limited chemical protection. (ERG, 2024)

Excerpt from ERG Guide 112 [Explosives - Division 1.1, 1.2, 1.3 or 1.5]:

Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). Structural firefighters' protective clothing provides thermal protection but only limited chemical protection. (ERG, 2024)

Wear full protective clothing and positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus.

Personnel protection: Wear appropriate chemical protective gloves, boots and goggles ... Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus when fighting fires involving this material. /oxidizer and liquid (oxidizer)/

Personnel protection: ... Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus when fighting fires involving this material. /explosives/

NO contact with combustible substances or reducing agents.

PREVENT DISPERSION OF DUST!

Use local exhaust or breathing protection.

Protective gloves.

Wear safety goggles.

Do not eat, drink, or smoke during work.

Ammonium nitrate is commercially available both as a colorless crystalline solid and processed into prills for specific applications. Soluble in water. Does not readily burn but will do so if contaminated with combustible material. Accelerates the burning of combustible material. Produces toxic oxides of nitrogen during combustion. Used to make fertilizers and explosives, and as a nutrient in producing antibiotics and yeast.

Ammonium nitrate based fertilizer appears as a grayish white solid in the form of prills. Soluble in water. Produces toxic oxides of nitrogen during combustion.

Ammonium Nitrate Emulsion, Suspension, or Gel is ammonium nitrate suspended in a liquid. The material itself does not readily burn but will readily do so if contaminated by combustible material. It will accelerate the burning of combustible material. Toxic oxides of nitrogen are produced during combustion during combustion of this material. It is used as a fertilizer, as a freezing mixture, in safety explosives, matches, and pyrotechnics.

Ammonium nitrate liquid is the white crystals dissolved in water. Though the material itself is noncombustible it will accelerate the burning of combustible materials. Toxic oxides of nitrogen are produced in fires involving this material. It is used to make fertilizers and explosives.

Nitrate of ammonia explosives appears as a powder. Readily explodes if heated. Difficult to explode by shock. Toxic nitrogen oxide fumes may be released during combustion. Primary hazard is blast of an instantaneous explosion, not flying projectiles or fragments.

CBI; Large Crystals; Other Solid; Dry Powder; Liquid; Other Solid; Liquid; Dry Powder; Large Crystals; Liquid; Large Crystals; Liquid

White, odorless crystals; Deliquescent; [CHEMINFO]

COLOURLESS-TO-WHITE HYGROSCOPIC SOLID IN VARIOUS FORMS.

White hygroscopic crystals; orthorhombic

Transparent, hygroscopic, deliquescent crystals or white granules. Five solid phases exist at normal pressure. Orthorhombic at room temperature.

Colorless crystals

Colorless (pure) to gray or brown (fertilizer grade).

Odorless

Decomposes at 200-260 °C

337.8 °F (USCG, 1999)

169.7 °C

169.6 °C

213 g/100 g water at 25 °C

Slightly soluble in methanol

Soluble in alcohol and alkalies

118.3 g/100 cc of H2O at 0 °C, 871 g at 100 °C; 3.8 g/100 cc ethanol at 20 °C; soluble in acetone; 17.1 g/100 cc methanol at 20 °C; soluble in ammonia; insoluble in ether

Solubility in water, g/100ml at 20 °C: 200

1.72 at 68 °F (USCG, 1999) - Denser than water; will sink

1.72 at 25 °C

1.7 g/cm³

1.725 @25 °C

2.3 kPa at 20 °C in water solution; 1.5 kPa at 20 °C in saturated NH4NOs solution

Stability during transport: If heated strongly, decomposes, giving off toxic gases and gases which support combustion. Undergoes detonation if heated under confinement.

Not flammable (USCG, 1999)

Decomposes @ 210 °C, with evolution of nitrous oxide.

Decomposition creates toxic gases containing ammonia and nitrogen oxides. The resulting nitrogen oxides will support combustion, even in the absence of other oxygen. The resulting heat and pressure from the decomposition of ammonium nitrate may build up if the reaction takes place in a confined space and the heat and gases created are not able to dissipate. As the temperature rises, the rate of decomposition increases. In a confined space, the pressure can reach dangerous levels and cause an explosion that will include the detonation of the ammonium nitrate. When dealing with a large quantity of ammonium nitrate, localized areas of high temperature may be sufficiently confined by the mass of material to initiate an explosion. The explosion of a small quantity of ammonium nitrate in a confined space (e.g., a pipe) may act as a booster charge and initiate the explosion of larger quantities (e.g., in an associated vessel).

Decomposition of sodium hypochlorite takes place within a few seconds with the following salts: ammonium acetate, ammonium carbonate, ammonium nitrate, ammonium oxalate, and ammonium phosphate.

The decomposition of ammonium nitrate in the presence of ammonium chloride (0.1%) becomes violent around 175 °C. The gases liberated contain chlorine.

The nitrate containing 0.1% of ammonium chloride decomposes vigorously below 175 deg. Presence of 0.1% of calcium chloride or iron(III) chloride in the nitrate lowers its initiation temperature sufficiently to give violent or explosive decomposition.

Ammonium nitrate melts at 337 °F (170 °C) and begins to undergo decomposition when molten. Hazardous scenarios with ammonium nitrate can involve simple thermal decomposition initiated by external fire or other heating, self-sustained decomposition also known as "cigar burning," and detonation.

Most types of ammonium nitrate do not continue to decompose once a fire has been extinguished. However, some types of ammonium nitraet fertilizers containing a small percentage of chlorides (e.g., potassium chloride) undergo a smoldering (self-sustaining) decomposition that can spread throughout the mass to produce substantial toxic fumes, even when the initial heat source is removed. These fertilizers that can self-sustain decomposition, known as "cigar burners" are normally compound fertilizers that contain between 5% to 25% nitrogen from ammonium nitrate, up to 20% phosphate (as P2O5) and chloride (which may only be present as a small percentage).

> 210 °C

0.1 M solution in water: 5.43

Decomposition begins above 170 °C

Enthalpy of fusion: 5.86 kJ/mol at 169.7 °C

Water soluble. Hot aqueous solutions of the nitrate above 50% conc., under confinement may decompose explosively. This process is aided catalytically with such substances as nitric acid and chloride ion, [Chem. Abs., 1982, 97, 78074].

Water soluble

No rapid reaction with air. No rapid reaction with water.

Salts, Acidic

Nitrate and Nitrite Compounds, Inorganic

Water and Aqueous Solutions

Explosive

Strong Oxidizing Agent

The hazards of AMMONIUM NITRATE have been well studied because of several extremely severe explosions [Chem. Eng., 1962, 70, 91; Bretherick, 5th Ed., 1995]. Mixtures with alkyl esters may explode, owing to the formation of alkyl nitrates. Mixtures with phosphorus, tin(II) chloride or other reducing agents may react explosively [Bretherick 1979 p. 108-109]. A mixture with aluminum powder (also zinc, cadmium, copper, magnesium, lead, cobalt, nickel, bismuth, chromium, and antimony) can be used as an explosive. A number of explosions in which ammonium nitrate and aluminum were mixed with carbon or hydrocarbons, with or without oxidizing agents have occurred [Mellor 5:219 1946-47]. A mixture with acetic acid ignites when warmed, especially if concentrated [Von Schwartz p. 322 1918]. Causes the decomposition of sodium hypochlorite within a few seconds [Mellor 2 Supp. 1:550 1956].

AMMONIUM NITRATE BASED FERTILIZER is an oxidizing agent. Does not itself readily burn, but accelerates the burning of combustible material with which it may be contaminated. Produces toxic oxides of nitrogen during such reactions. Mixtures with alkyl esters may explode, owing to the formation of alkyl nitrates. Mixtures with phosphorus, tin(II) chloride or other reducing agents may react explosively [Bretherick 1979 p. 108-109]. Mixtures with aluminum powder (also zinc, cadmium, copper, magnesium, lead, cobalt, nickel, bismuth, chromium, and antimony) can be used as explosives. A number of explosions in which ammonium nitrate and aluminum were mixed with carbon or hydrocarbons, with or without oxidizing agents have occurred [Mellor 5:219 1946-47]. Mixtures with acetic acid ignite when warmed, especially if concentrated [Von Schwartz p. 322 1918]. Causes the decomposition of sodium hypochlorite within a few seconds [Mellor 2 Supp. 1:550 1956].

AMMONIUM NITRATE is a strong oxidizing agent. Intimate ontact with combustible materials creates a fire or explosion hazard. Closed containers may rupture violently or detonate if heated. May detonate if subjected to strong shocks, such as from an explosion. Ammonium nitrate of any grade, including fertilizer grade should be considered, especially when mixed with oil, charcoal, or other organic materials, an explosive capable of detonation by the combustion or explosion of adjacent materials. Emits oxides of nitrogen and ammonia when heated to decomposition.

The decomposition, fire, and explosion hazards of AMMONIUM NITRATE have been well studied. This is in part due to several extremely severe explosion incidents that have occurred that have had significant loss of life and property [Chem. Eng., 1962, 70, 91]; [Bretherick, 5th Ed., 1995]. A mixture of ammonium nitrate and aluminum powder can be used as an explosive. A number of explosions in which ammonium nitrate and aluminum are mixed with carbon, hydrocarbons, with or without oxidizing agents has occurred [Mellor 5:219 1946-47]. A mixture of ammonium nitrate and acetic acid ignites when warmed, especially if concentrated [Von Schwartz, p. 322 1918]. Decomposition of sodium hypochlorite takes place within a few seconds with the following salts: ammonium acetate, ammonium carbonate, ammonium nitrate, ammonium oxalate, and ammonium phosphate [Mellor 2 Supp. 1:550 1956].

NITRATE OF AMMONIA EXPLOSIVE is a powdered high explosive. Mixtures with alkyl esters may explode, owing to the formation of alkyl nitrates; mixtures with phosphorus, tin(II) chloride or other reducing agents may react explosively [Bretherick 1979. p. 108-109]. A mixture of ammonium nitrate and aluminum powder (also zinc, cadmium, copper, magnesium, lead, cobalt, nickel, bismuth, chromium, and antimony behave similarly to aluminum) can be used as an explosive. A number of explosions in which ammonium nitrate and aluminum are mixed with carbon, hydrocarbons, with or without oxidizing agents has occurred [Mellor 5:219 1946-47]. A mixture of ammonium nitrate and acetic acid ignites when warmed, especially if concentrated [Von Schwartz p. 322 1918]. Decomposition of sodium hypochlorite takes place within a few seconds with the following salts: ammonium acetate, ammonium carbonate, ammonium nitrate, ammonium oxalate, and ammonium phosphate [Mellor 2 Supp. 1:550 1956].

With ammonium chloride, (barium nitrate), water, zinc: Addition of water to an intimate mixture of zinc powder and the salts causes spontaneous ignition and a mixture of ammonium nitrate and ammonium chloride...sprinkled with zinc dust ignites vigorously when moistened.

Mixtures of ammonium nitrate with charcoal and metal oxides: The pelleted explosive ("ammonpulver", containing 10% charcoal) normally ignites at 160-165 °C, but presence of rust, or copper or zinc oxides, lowers the temperature to 80-120 °C.

With fertilizer materials: Mixtures of ammonium nitrate, superphosphate and organic materials stored in bulk may ignite if the internal temperature exceeds 90 °C. This is owing to the free acid in the superphosphate, and may be prevented by neutralization with ammonia.

During the flame cutting of a pipeline plugged with impure ammonium nitrate, the pipe contents exploded violently.

For more Hazardous Reactivities and Incompatibilities (Complete) data for AMMONIUM NITRATE (26 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Nitrate's toxicity is a result of it's conversion to nitrite once in the body. Nitrite causes the autocatalytic oxidation of oxyhemoglobin to hydrogen peroxide and methemoglobin. This elevation of methemoglobin levels is a condition known as methemoglobinemia, and is characterized by tissue hypoxia, as methemoglobin cannot bind oxygen. (A2450, L1613)

Ingested nitrate or nitrite under conditions that result in endogenous nitrosation is probably carcinogenic to humans (Group 2A). (L135)

Nitrate and nitrite poisoning causes methemoglobinemia. Nitrites may cause pregnancy complications and developmental effects. They may also be carcinogenic. (L1137)

The substance can be absorbed into the body by inhalation and by ingestion.

Oral (L1137) ; inhalation (L1137)

Redness.

Redness. Pain.

Vomiting. Diarrhoea. Blue lips, fingernails and skin. Weakness.

Nitrate and nitrite poisoning causes methemoglobinemia. Symptoms include cyanosis, cardiac dysrhythmias and circulatory failure, and progressive central nervous system (CNS) effects. CNS effects can range from mild dizziness and lethargy to coma and convulsions. (L1137)

Methemoglobinemia - The presence of increased methemoglobin in the blood; the compound is classified as secondary toxic effect

LD50: 2217 mg/kg (Oral, Rat) (A675)

LC50: >88.8 mg/L over 4 hours (Inhalation, Rat) (A675)

LD50 Rat oral 2217 mg/kg bw

LD50 Rat oral 2800 mg/kg bw

LC50 Rat inhalation >88.8 mg/L/4 hr

Methemoglobinemia can be treated with supplemental oxygen and methylene blue 1% solution administered intravenously slowly over five minutes followed by IV flush with normal saline. Methylene blue restores the iron in hemoglobin to its normal (reduced) oxygen-carrying state. (L1613)

... The objective of our study was to examine how realistic, sublethal environmental levels of ammonium nitrate fertilizer (0, 10, 20 mg/L and ammonium chloride control) and the common insecticide carbaryl (0 or 2.5 mg/L) individually and interactively affect the development, size, and survival of green frog (Rana clamitans) tadpoles. /The authors/ reared tadpoles for 95 days in outdoor 1,000-L polyethylene ponds. /They/ found that the combination of carbaryl and nitrate had a negative effect on development and mass of tadpoles compared to the positive effect that either contaminant had alone. Presence of carbaryl was generally associated with short-term increases in algal resources, including ponds exposed to both carbaryl and nitrate. However, with exposure to nitrate and carbaryl, tadpole mass and development were not positively affected as with one chemical stressor alone...

Emergency and Supportive Measures: Maintain an open airway and assist ventilation if necessary. Administer supplemental oxygen. Treat hypotension with supine positioning, intravenous crystalloid fluids, and low-dose pressors if needed. Monitor vital signs and ECG for 4-6 hours. /Nitrates and nitrites/

Specific Drugs and Antidotes: Symptomatic methemoglobinemia may be treated with methylene blue. /SRP: Methylene blue should not be administered to a patient with known G-6-PD deficiency because severe hemolytic anemia can develop. /Nitrates and nitrites/

Decontamination: Inhalation: Remove victims from exposure and administer supplemental oxygen if available. Skin and Eyes: Remove contaminated clothing and wash with copious soap and water. Irrigate exposed eyes with water or saline. Ingestion: Administer activated charcoal orally if conditions are appropriate. Gastric lavage is not necessary after small to moderate ingestions if activated charcoal can be given promptly. /Nitrates and nitrites/

Enhanced Elimination: Hemodialysis and hemoperfusion are not effective. Severe methemoglobinemia in infants not responsive to methylene blue therapy may require exchange transfusion. /Nitrates and nitrites/

For more Antidote and Emergency Treatment (Complete) data for AMMONIUM NITRATE (7 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Clinical Evaluation: History. Evaluation of a patient with suspected nitrate/nitrite exposure includes a complete medical history and physical examination. Clues to potential exposure are often obtained by reviewing the following items with the patient or family: location of home (urban, suburban, or rural); drinking water source and supply (if well water: depth, location, type of well construction, and frequency of microbiologic and nitrate testing); surrounding activities (agricultural or industrial) and proximity to drinking-water source; type of sewer system (municipal or septic) and proximity to drinking water source; recent flooding; occupations, avocations, and hobbies of family members; nutritional status (for infants: type of formula, feeding regimen, and source of dilution water); family history, including recent use of medications by infant and mother; and history of recent gastroenteritis with vomiting or diarrhea. /Nitrates and Nitrites/

Physical examination should include special attention to the color of the skin and mucous membranes. If there is a history of gastroenteritis (especially in infants), evaluate the patient for the possible presence of dehydration (poor skin turgor, sunken fontanelle, dry mucous membranes). All cyanotic patients should be assessed for possible cardiac and lung disease (cardiac murmurs, gallops, arrhythmias; rales, rhonchi, wheezes, dullness or hyperresonance in the chest). A central chocolate-brown or slate-gray cyanosis that does not respond to administration of 100% oxygen is indicative of methemoglobinemia. Cyanosis due to cardiorespiratory compromise most often improves with administration of 100% oxygen. In young infants, look for labored breathing, respiratory exhaustion, hypotension, below-average weight gain, and failure to meet developmental markers. Gastroenteritis can increase the rates of production and absorption of nitrites in young infants and aggravate methemoglobinemia. /Nitrates and Nitrites/

Signs and Symptoms Signs and symptoms of methemoglobinemia can be directly correlated with the percentage of total hemoglobin in the oxidized form... The lips and mucous membranes of patients with nitrate/nitrite toxicity usually have more of a brownish than a bluish cast. Dyspnea, especially on exertion, is common. Varying degrees of central nervous system depression might be present. The cardiac and pulmonary examinations are usually normal, but systolic flow murmurs might be detected. Cardiac arrhythmias and hypotension can occur in patients with severe poisoning, although death from methemoglobinemia alone is uncommon, except in infants. /Nitrates and Nitrites/

Laboratory Evaluation Most commonly, a drop of the patient's blood is placed on a piece of filter paper next to a drop of blood from person who does not have methemoglobinemia; when dry, the blood with methemoglobin will turn a deep chocolate-brown or slate-gray color. A tube of methemoglobin containing blood will not turn red when shaken in air or when oxygen is bubbled through it, whereas blood that is dark because of normal deoxyhemoglobin will turn red. Screening Tests: Examination of blood color. Determination of the calculated versus measured arterial saturation gap. Hemoglobin and hematocrit. Serum-free hemoglobin (for hemolysis detection). Serum haptoglobin (for hemolysis detection). Heinz bodies on peripheral blood smear. Urinalysis. Specialized Tests: Determination of methemoglobin level. Tests for causes of congenital methemoglobinemia. Hemoglobin electrophoresis. Activity of NADH-dependent methemoglobin reductase. Tests for Causes of Failure of Methylene Blue Therapy (see Treatment and Management section): Activity of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G-6-PD). Activity of NADPH-dependent methemoglobin reductase. Sulfhemoglobin blood level (not readily available for clinical use). /Nitrates and Nitrites/

For more Medical Surveillance (Complete) data for AMMONIUM NITRATE (7 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

/HUMAN EXPOSURE STUDIES/ Volunteers, 20 normal and 19 asthmatic, were exposed to clean air and to ammonium nitrate aerosol under conditions which simulated a worst case ambient pollution episode. Exposures of 200 ug/cu m lasted for 2 hours with intermittent exercise and heat stress. No noticeable changes in pulmonary function or overall reported symptoms were observed due to the ammonium nitrate exposure.

/HUMAN EXPOSURE STUDIES/ 231 normal male human subjects were exposed for 4 hours to ammonium nitrate aerosols. Each subject had two 15 min exercise sessions on a treadmill at 4 mph & 20% grade. Temp conditions were 30 °C and relative humidity was 60%. A battery of 19 measurements of pulmonary function was performed. No significant effects from ammonium nitrate aerosol was produced.

/SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS/ Inhalation is irritating to mucous membranes of respiratory tract, causes severe lung congestion, coughing, and difficult breathing, causes urination and acid urine.

/SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS/ Inhalation of large amounts causes systemic acidosis and abnormal hemoglobin.

For more Human Toxicity Excerpts (Complete) data for AMMONIUM NITRATE (9 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ In the Draize test in the rabbit, ammonium nitrate was found to be moderately irritating. The mean erythema and edema scores were calculated to be 0.1 and 0, respectively following a simple 4 hr application. No erythema was observed in any animals 48 or 72 hrs following decontamination. Repeated (x5) applications of 500 mg of test sample to each rabbit caused only very slight edema in two of the rabbits and slightly erythema in a third rabbit.

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Subchronic or Prechronic Exposure/ Three weeks following intratracheal instillations of elastase dissolved in saline, or saline alone, guinea pigs and rats were exposed for 5 or 20 days, 6 hr/day, 5 days/week to filtered room air, 1 mg/m3 ammonium sulfate [NH4)2SO4) or 1 mg/m3 ammonium nitrate (NH4NO3) aerosols. Pulmonary function evaluations conducted in guinea pigs showed no detrimental effects of (NH4)2SO4 or NH4NO3 exposure and very little effect of elastase treatment. Lung function changes in elastase-treated rats were consistent with a condition of experimentally induced pulmonary emphysema. Rats exposed to NH4NO3 aerosols showed no consistent exposure-related changes. Compared with air-exposed animals, rats exposed to (NH4)2SO4 aerosols had increased values of residual volume and functional residual capacity and decreased slope of single-breath N2 washout curves. /The investigators/ conclude that elastase treatment had no significant effect on lung function changes resulting from inhalation of (NH4)2SO4 aerosols. Lung function was more affected by (NH4)2SO4 exposure than by NH4NO3 exposure, and lung function changes were more pronounced in rats than in guinea pigs.

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Subchronic or Prechronic Exposure/ Sprague Dawley rats were exposed to 1 mg/cu m ammonium nitrate 6 hr/day, 5 days/wk and for 4 wks. The exposure by inhalation did not cause any effect on: body weight, lung volume, vital capacity, and the histologic structute of ciliated epithelial cells of the respiratory tract.

/GENOTOXICITY/ Ammonium nitrate at 5 mg/plate was negative in the Salmonella typhimurium reverse mutation assay in strains TA1535, TA1537, TA1538, TA98 and TA100 with or without metabolic activation.

For more Non-Human Toxicity Excerpts (Complete) data for AMMONIUM NITRATE (9 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

The following link will take the user to the National Toxicology Program (NTP) Test Agent Search Results page, which tabulates all of the "Standard Toxicology & Carcinogenesis Studies", "Developmental Studies", and "Genetic Toxicity Studies" performed with this chemical. Clicking on the "Testing Status" link will take the user to the status (i.e., in review, in progress, in preparation, on test, completed, etc.) and results of all the studies that the NTP has done on this chemical.[Available from, as of November 11, 2013: http://ntp-apps.niehs.nih.gov/ntp_tox/index.cfm?fuseaction=ntpsearch.searchresults&searchterm=6484-52-2]

... Gastroenteritis can increase the rates of production and absorption of nitrites in young infants and aggravate methemoglobinemia. /Nitrates and Nitrites/

LC50; Species: /Oncorhynchus mykiss (Rainbow trout)/ 6000 mg/L for 96 hr /Conditions of bioassay not specified/

LC50; Species: Xenopus laevis (African clawed frog) tadpoles age 14 days, weight 17 mg, gosner stage 26-27; Conditions: freshwater, static-renewal, 22 °C, pH 7.0-7.6, hardness 58.4 mg/L CaCO3, alkalinity 52.0 mg/L CaCO3, conductivity 156.0 uS/cm, dissolved oxygen 7.2 mg/L; Concentration: 52.9 mg/L for 10 days (95% confidence interval: 46.6-60.0 mg/L) /99% pure/

LC50; Species: /Oncorhynchus mykiss (Rainbow trout)/ 6000 mg/L for 96 hr /Conditions of bioassay not specified/

LC50; Species: Xenopus laevis (African clawed frog) tadpoles age 14 days, weight 17 mg, gosner stage 26-27; Conditions: freshwater, static-renewal, 22 °C, pH 7.0-7.6, hardness 58.4 mg/L CaCO3, alkalinity 52.0 mg/L CaCO3, conductivity 156.0 uS/cm, dissolved oxygen 7.2 mg/L; Concentration: 52.9 mg/L for 10 days (95% confidence interval: 46.6-60.0 mg/L) /99% pure/

LC50; Species: Xenopus laevis (African clawed frog) tadpoles age 14 days, weight 17 mg, gosner stage 26-27; Conditions: freshwater, static-renewal, 22 °C, pH 7.0-7.6, hardness 58.4 mg/L CaCO3, alkalinity 52.0 mg/L CaCO3, conductivity 156.0 uS/cm, dissolved oxygen 7.2 mg/L; Concentration: 100.7 mg/L for 96 hr (95% confidence interval: 87.8-115.4 mg/L) /99% pure/

LC50; Species: Cyprinus carpio (common carp) fry, weight 33.6 g; Conditions: freshwater, renewal, 13.5 °C (12.0-15.2 °C), pH 7.6 (7.2-8.2), dissolved oxygen 9.4 mg/L (9.0-9.8 mg/L); Concentration: 74 mg/L for 48 hr (95% confidence interval: 65-85 mg/L) /99% pure/

For more Ecotoxicity Values (Complete) data for AMMONIUM NITRATE (13 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

/AQUATIC SPECIES/ Temporary ponds where many amphibians breed experience a gradual desiccation that leads to growing larval densities, which can reduce tadpole survival rates and increase cannibalistic interactions among carnivorous salamander larvae. Concentrations of many agrochemicals, including nitrogenous fertilizers, can also increase as the water volume decreases. /The investigators/ analyzed the effects of ammonium nitrate fertilizer at two larval densities on growth and survival of Rana dalmatina /agile frog/ tadpoles, and on cannibalistic behaviors of Salamandra salamandra /fire salamander/ larvae. /The investigators/ observed synergistic lethal effects until day 17 of exposure, when ammonium nitrate-related mortality of tadpoles was five times greater at high than at low density. The fertilizer impaired tadpole growth. This effect was stronger at low density than at high density. In the absence of ammonium nitrate, the incidence of cannibalism was higher at high than at low larval density. However, fertilizer exposure removed this density-dependent effect, which, under field conditions, would negate some potentially advantageous effects of cannibalism such as reduced intraspecific competition and the stimulation of defensive behaviors.

/AQUATIC SPECIES/ In static renewal experiments, ...how developmental stage influences the effect of ammonium nitrate on embryonic and larval stages of anuran amphibians /was studied/. The observed lethal effects caused by ammonium nitrate increased with both concentration and duration of exposure. Significant differences were observed in sensitivity to ammonium nitrate as a function of developmental stage in Discoglossus galganoi /Iberian painted frog/, Pelobates cultripes /western spadefoot toad/, and Bufo calamita /natterjack toad/. In D. galganoi and P. cultripes, younger individuals displayed greater acute effects from the chemical fertilizer compared with older individuals. For example, 100% of P. cultripes hatchlings died after 4 days of exposure to a nominal concentration of 225.8 mg N-NO3NH4/L, whereas <40% of individuals from older larval stages died when exposed to this concentration. A delay of 4 days in the beginning of the exposure to the chemical was enough to cause significant differences in sensitivity. Bufo calamita showed a higher sensitivity in later larval stages after 12 days of exposure. Hyla meridionalis /Mediterranean tree frog/ and B. calamita were less sensitive than the other two species. Peak ammonium nitrate concentrations usually occur when amphibians are breeding and, thus, when the most sensitive aquatic stage is in the water. The developmental stage of the test animals should be considered when evaluating the risk of ammonium nitrate to amphibians.

/AQUATIC SPECIES/ The min lethal toxicity of ... ammonium nitrate ... for Rana temporaria chensinensis /Chinese brown frog/ tadpoles was 0.91 g/L, and the max tolerance concn was 0.83 g/L. In field experiments, ammonium nitrate at concn of 0.25 g/L had no adverse effect on the tadpoles as reflected by their growth rate.

/AQUATIC SPECIES/ The effects of ammonium nitrate, ammonium chloride, ammonium sulfate, and sodium nitrate on survival and growth of Pacific treefrog (Pseudacris regilla [Baird and Girard]) and African clawed frog (Xenopus laevis [Daudin]) tadpoles were determined in static-renewal tests. The 10-day ammonium nitrate and ammonium sulfate LC50s for P. regilla were 55.2 and 89.7 mg/L NH4-N, respectively. The 10-day LC50s for X. laevis for the three ammonium compounds ranged from 45 to 64 mg/L NH4-N. The 10-day sodium nitrate LC50s were 266.2 mg/L NO3-N for P. regilla and 1,236.2 mg/L NO3-N for X. laevis. The lowest observed adverse effect level (LOAEL) of ammonium compound based on reduced length or weight was 24.6 mg/L NH4-N for P. regilla and 99.5 mg/L NH4-N for X. laevis. The lowest sodium nitrate LOAELs based on reduced length or weight were <30.1 mg/L NO3-N for P. regilla and 126.3 mg/L NO3-N for X. laevis. Calculated un-ionized NH3 comprised 0.3 to 1.0% of measured NH4-N concentrations. Potential harm to amphibians could occur if sensitive life stages were impacted by NH4-N and NO3-N in agricultural runoff or drainage for a sufficiently long period.

For more Ecotoxicity Excerpts (Complete) data for AMMONIUM NITRATE (11 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Avoid release to the environment in circumstances different to normal use.

Ammonium nitrate is quite soluble in water (250 g/100 mL at 20 °C). Thus, if precipitation occurs prior to clean up, or if water is used to disperse the spilled chemical, the solution of ammonium nitrate produced can infiltrate the soil and migrate downward.

Ammonium nitrate will be taken up by bacteria. Nitrate is more persistent in water than /the/ ammonium ion; nitrate degradation is fastest in anaerobic conditions.

When spilled on soil, the liquid form of ammonium nitrate will spread on the surface and penetrate into the soil at a rate dependent on the soil type and its water content.

The immediate loss of fertilizer nitrogen as nitrous oxide (biochemical & microbiological) into the atmosphere was determined by in situ measurements of the nitrous oxide evolution rates from uncultivated Eolian sand. The net loss was equivalent to 0.1% of the applied fertilizer for ammonium chloride, 0.05% for ammonium nitrate & 0.01% for sodium nitrate. The total immediate loss of nitrous oxide-nitrogen after application of mineral fertilizer is estimated to be 0.004-1.2 teragram/yr.

The effects of nitrogen sources on nitrates and ammonium concentration in leachate & runoff from golf greens were studied. All profiles were equipped with subsurface tile drains over a plastic sheet and were treated sequentially with the ammonium nitrate, ureaformaldehyde, 12-12-12, Milorganite & isobutylenediurea (IBDU). Nitrate concentration in leachate from sand, mixed & soil greens fertilized with quick release materials ranged from 45-326, 8-314 & 8-170 mg/L, respectively & remained in this range for a 3-wk period. Nitrate nitrogen losses from various sources were in the order of ammonium nitrate greater than 12-12-12 greater than Milorganite greater than IBDU greater than ureaformaldehyde. Soluble sources, ammonium nitrate and 12-12-12 exhibited leaching within 5 days after application.

The total suspended particulate in the ambient aerosol in the 24 hr period measurements exceeds the Federal secondary standard, 150 ug/cu m, 10% of the time. The maximum 4 hr mass measurements for the total mass and fine mass fractions are 307 and 204 ug/cu m, respectively. The fine fraction of the total suspended particulate with diameter less than 2.5 mu consisting of organic carbon 23.7; ammonium nitrate 20.0, elemental carbon 16.8, ammonium sulfate 13.6, & others constitutes 42 to more than 50% of the aerosol.

According to the 2006 TSCA Inventory Update Reporting data, the number of persons reasonably likely to be exposed in the industrial manufacturing, processing, and use of ammonium nitrate is 1000 or greater; the data may be greatly underestimated(1).

NIOSH (NOES Survey 1981-1983) has statistically estimated that 57,833 workers (9,824 of these were female) were potentially exposed to ammonium nitrate in the US(1). The NOES Survey does not include farm workers. Occupational exposure to ammonium nitrate may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where ammonium nitrate is produced or used.

As a result of the blasting agent used in mines, ammonium nitrate, workers are subjected to air pollution in mines which poses an occupational health hazard.

SRP: Wastewater from contaminant suppression, cleaning of protective clothing/equipment, or contaminated sites should be contained and evaluated for subject chemical or decomposition product concentrations. Concentrations shall be lower than applicable environmental discharge or disposal criteria. Alternatively, pretreatment and/or discharge to a permitted wastewater treatment facility is acceptable only after review by the governing authority and assurance that "pass through" violations will not occur. Due consideration shall be given to remediation worker exposure (inhalation, dermal and ingestion) as well as fate during treatment, transfer and disposal. If it is not practicable to manage the chemical in this fashion, it must be evaluated in accordance with EPA 40 CFR Part 261, specifically Subpart B, in order to determine the appropriate local, state and federal requirements for disposal.

Remove slowly into a large container of water. Add Na2CO3 /sodium carbonate/ slightly by stirring. After 24 hr, decant or siphon into another container. Neutralize with 6 M-HCL /6 M-hydrochloric acid/ ... .

/GUIDE 140: OXIDIZERS/ Fire or Explosion: These substances will accelerate burning when involved in a fire. Some may decompose explosively when heated or involved in a fire. May explode from heat or contamination. Some will react explosively with hydrocarbons (fuels). May ignite combustibles (wood, paper, oil, clothing, etc.). Containers may explode when heated. Runoff may create fire or explosion hazard. /Ammonium nitrate, liquid (hot concentrated solution); Ammonium nitrate, with not more than 0.2% combustible substances; Ammonium nitrate emulsion; Ammonium nitrate gel; Ammonium nitrate suspension; Ammonium nitrate fertilizer, NOS; Ammonium nitrate fertilizer, with not more than 0.4% combustible material; Ammonium nitrate fertilizers; Ammonium nitrate mixed fertilizers/

/GUIDE 140: OXIDIZERS/ Health: Inhalation, ingestion or contact (skin, eyes) with vapors or substance may cause severe injury, burns or death. Fire may produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases. Runoff from fire control or dilution water may cause pollution. /Ammonium nitrate, liquid (hot concentrated solution); Ammonium nitrate, with not more than 0.2% combustible substances; Ammonium nitrate emulsion; Ammonium nitrate gel; Ammonium nitrate suspension; Ammonium nitrate fertilizer, NOS; Ammonium nitrate fertilizer, with not more than 0.4% combustible material; Ammonium nitrate fertilizers; Ammonium nitrate mixed fertilizers/

/GUIDE 140: OXIDIZERS/ Public Safety: CALL Emergency Response Telephone Number ... As an immediate precautionary measure, isolate spill or leak area in all directions for at least 50 meters (150 feet) for liquids and at least 25 meters (75 feet) for solids. Keep unauthorized personnel away. Stay upwind. Keep out of low areas. Ventilate closed spaces before entering. /Ammonium nitrate, liquid (hot concentrated solution); Ammonium nitrate, with not more than 0.2% combustible substances; Ammonium nitrate emulsion; Ammonium nitrate gel; Ammonium nitrate suspension; Ammonium nitrate fertilizer, NOS; Ammonium nitrate fertilizer, with not more than 0.4% combustible material; Ammonium nitrate fertilizers; Ammonium nitrate mixed fertilizers/

/GUIDE 140: OXIDIZERS/ Protective Clothing: Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). Wear chemical protective clothing that is specifically recommended by the manufacturer. It may provide little or no thermal protection. Structural firefighters' protective clothing will only provide limited protection. /Ammonium nitrate, liquid (hot concentrated solution); Ammonium nitrate, with not more than 0.2% combustible substances; Ammonium nitrate emulsion; Ammonium nitrate gel; Ammonium nitrate suspension; Ammonium nitrate fertilizer, NOS; Ammonium nitrate fertilizer, with not more than 0.4% combustible material; Ammonium nitrate fertilizers; Ammonium nitrate mixed fertilizers/

For more DOT Emergency Guidelines (Complete) data for AMMONIUM NITRATE (8 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

UN 0222; Ammonium nitrate, with more than 0.2 percent combustible substances, including any organic substance calculated as carbon, to the exclusion of any other added substance.

UN 1942; Ammonium nitrate, with not more than 0.2% total combustible material, including any organic substance, calculated as carbon to the exclusion of any other added substance.

UN 2067; Ammonium nitrate based fertilizer.

UN 2071; Ammonium nitrate based fertilizer.

For more Shipping Name/ Number DOT/UN/NA/IMO (Complete) data for AMMONIUM NITRATE (9 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

49 183 12; Ammonium nitrate, organic coating

49 183 10; Ammonium nitrate fertilizer, containing no more than 0.2% carbon

49 187 05; Ammonium nitrate mixed fertilizer

49 187 74; Ammonium nitrate, solution, containing not less than 15% water

49 183 11; Ammonium nitrate (no organic coating)

49 187 34; Ammonium nitrate-carbonate mixture

49 029 10; Ammonium nitrate-fuel oil mixture (containing only prilled ammonium nitrate and fuel oil)

49 187 04; Ammonium nitrate-phosphate

49 187 03; Ammonium nitrate, magnesia, and pulp mixture (oxidizing material)

49 187 02; Ammonium nitrate, sodium nitrate mixture (oxidizing material)

No person may /transport,/ offer or accept a hazardous material for transportation in commerce unless that person is registered in conformance ... and the hazardous material is properly classed, described, packaged, marked, labeled, and in condition for shipment as required or authorized by ... /the hazardous materials regulations (49 CFR 171-177)./

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) Dangerous Goods Regulations are published by the IATA Dangerous Goods Board pursuant to IATA Resolutions 618 and 619 and constitute a manual of industry carrier regulations to be followed by all IATA Member airlines when transporting hazardous materials. Ammonium nitrate, ammonium nitrate based fertilizer, ammonium nitrate emulsion, ammonium nitrate gel, ammonium nitrate liquid (hot concentrated solution), and ammonium nitrate suspension are included on the dangerous goods list.

The International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code lays down basic principles for transporting hazardous chemicals. Detailed recommendations for individual substances and a number of recommendations for good practice are included in the classes dealing with such substances. A general index of technical names has also been compiled. This index should always be consulted when attempting to locate the appropriate procedures to be used when shipping any substance or article. Ammonium nitrate with more than 0.2% combustible substances, including any organic substance calculated as carbon, to the exclusion of any other added substance; Ammonium nitrate with not more than 0.2% total combustible material, including any organic substance, calculated as carbon to the exclusion of any other added substance; Ammonium nitrate based fertilizer; Ammonium nitrate, liquid (hot concentrated solution); Ammonium nitrate emulsion or suspension or gel intermediate for blasting explosives; and Ammonium nitrate fertilizer are included on the dangerous goods list.

Oxidizer

Oxidizer Class 9

Explosive 1.1D

UN Hazard Class: 5.1; UN Pack Group: III