Ammonium Chloride hexahydrate
| Formula | NH4Cl |
| Density | 1.52 g/cm3 |
| Molar mass | 53.49 g/mol |
| CAS number | 12125-02-9 |
| HS code | 28271000 |
| EC number | 017-014-00-8 |
| Storage (temprature) | Without limitation |
| SDS | Available |
| RTECS | BP4550000 |
| R phrase | R 22-36 |
| S phrase | S 22 |
| Assay | 99.5 – 100.5 | % | |
| Description | Conforms | ||
| Solubility | Conforms | ||
| Identification | Conforms | ||
| pH (5% Water) | 4.6 – 6.0 | ||
| Heavy metals | ≤ | 0/001 | % |
| Residue on ignition | ≤ | 0/1 | % |
| Limit of thiocyanate | Conforms | ||
| Loss on drying (105°C) | ≤ | 0/5 | % |
Ammonium chloride hexahydrate is a hydrated form of ammonium chloride that appears as colorless or white crystalline solid. It is used in various industrial, laboratory, and pharmaceutical applications, particularly where controlled release of ammonia or chloride ions is needed.
🏭⚗️ Production
Ammonium chloride hexahydrate is typically obtained by crystallizing ammonium chloride from aqueous solutions under specific temperature and humidity conditions that promote the formation of the hexahydrate. It can also form as a by-product in industrial processes such as the Solvay process.
🔬 Properties
Ammonium chloride hexahydrate has the chemical formula NH₄Cl·6H₂O and a molar mass of approximately 170.5 g/mol. It appears as a white, hygroscopic crystalline solid that is readily soluble in water. The compound decomposes upon heating, releasing ammonia and hydrogen chloride gases. It is less common than the anhydrous form but exhibits similar chemical behavior, with additional water content influencing its physical properties.
🧪 Applications
Ammonium chloride hexahydrate is used in laboratory settings as a source of ammonia and chloride ions. It can serve as a mild acidifying agent in pharmaceutical formulations and is sometimes employed in cooling baths or for temperature regulation in certain chemical reactions. Its applications are more specialized than the anhydrous form, which is more widely used in fertilizers, metalwork, and batteries.
⚠️ Safety
Ammonium chloride hexahydrate is generally considered to be of low toxicity but may cause irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract upon direct exposure. Prolonged contact or inhalation of dust should be avoided. It should be stored in a sealed container in a cool, dry environment to prevent moisture loss or absorption.
