Anhydrous ammonia burns. The XLR99 used anhydrous ammonia and liquid oxygen as propellant, and hydrogen peroxide to drive the high-speed turbopump that delivered propellants to the engine. Anhydrous ammonia is a strong alkali Anhydrous ammonia is also a very cold liquid, as it is released from a tank its temperature is -28F, and can cause serious thermal burns very quickly. In Europe, however, it is classified as flammable. It can also cause headaches, nausea and vomiting. Use water spray to keep fire-exposed containers cool, and to absorb and disperse vapors. Patients who get sprayed with a jet of anhydrous ammonia (eg, sudden decompression of an ammonia tank) but quickly escape may have burns to the face, neck, upper extremities, and eyes without additional injury. Some patients also experienced cutaneous burns, blisters, or lesions as the skin is particularly sensitive to airborne ammonia or ammonia dissolved in water. Anhydrous ammonia is a colourless gas that has a strong smell and is toxic, corrosive and flammable. In this retrospective study, we present the acute and chronic respiratory manifestations in 12 patients exposed to anhydrous ammonia as a result of the same accident. As with other alkali burns, ear Anhydrous Ammonia Burns Case Report and Review of the Literature Abstract: Chemical burns are associated with significant morbidity, especially anhydrous ammonia burns. It is used in making fertilizer, plastics, dyes, textiles, detergents, and pesticides. Learn more about the symptoms, treatment, and outlook. For detailed information, contact your local Cooperative Extension office or agrichemical dealer. Ammonia is not flammable, BURN WITH EXPLOSIVE FORCE. Ammonia is found throughout the environment in the air, soil, and water, and in plants and animals including humans. The challenges inherent in managing the pulmonary complications of this injury are emphasized. Ammonia is a chemical that can be naturally or artificially produced. In This paper focuses on the potential use of ammonia as a carbon-free fuel, and covers recent advances in the development of ammonia combustion technolo… Anhydrous ammonia (liquid or gas) reacts with tissue moisture to form corrosive ammonium hydroxide solution. Anhydrous ammonia causes freezing and chemical burn wherever skin and clothing are moist. Cold thermal injury from other pressurized liquids and gases have been reported in the past [3], [4], [5], [6]. If ammonia has contacted the eyes, irritation, pain, conjunctivitis (red, inflamed eyes), lacrimation (tearing), and corneal erosion may occur. Following disrobe, improvised wet decontamination should be considered. Ammonia gas can also be compressed and becomes a liquid under pressure. Skin chemical burns, blistering, pain, necrosis, particularly on moist skin areas Contact with compressed liquid ammonia (stored at -28 °F) can cause frostbite injury and deep ulcerating burns Find out what anhydrous ammonia is and discover its industrial applications. Industrial products are typically more concentrated and more likely to cause burns. Here we suggest some practices to minimize crop injuries. It contains descriptions and evaluations of toxicological studies and epidemiological investigations and provides conclusions, where possible, on the relevance of toxicity and toxicokinetic Understand what happens if ammonia touches skin, from irritation to severe chemical burns. Most injuries are the result of accidental exposure, frequently in the course of work. In the respiratory tract, exposure to gaseous ammonia results in injury to the superficial layers of the epithelium, exposing the patient to infection. com, for residents and businesses within a two-mile radius. Direct exposure to anhydrous ammonia may result in chemical burns or frostbite injuries. Anhydrous ammonia injuries occurring i … Anhydrous ammonia is a colourless gas that has a strong smell and is toxic, corrosive and flammable. Ammonia dissolves in water to form ammonium hydroxide, a corrosive solution. Protecting Your Anhydrous ammonia is a strong alkali that can cause painful skin burns. FREEZING AND BOILING POINTS Anhydrous ammonia boils at -28°F. Acute anhydrous ammonia burns are relatively rare but lethal and often occur as a mass occupational incident worldwide. Acute respiratory distress syndrome (AR … When liquid anhydrous ammonia is released into the atmosphere, it immediately starts to evaporate and lower the ambient temperature. Anhydrous ammonia is a thirsty gas that grabs water – and in the process can burn skin, the inside of the mouth, throat and lungs. 60 g/cm 3, the density is lower in water-containing mixtures. Fire or explosion in the use of anhydrous ammonia What is the potential risk? Common health hazards of anhydrous ammonia arise from its inhalation and corrosive effects. This injury is more likely in areas with limited rainfall after fall or spring anhydrous application, as some parts of the state have received less rainfall than others (Figure 1). Anhydrous ammonia, a widespread industrial chemical, can cause severe inhalation and ophthalmic injuries, as well as cutaneous burns. Long-term effects of eye injury from ammonia could result in ulceration and perforation of the cornea, with possible blindness weeks or months after exposure. The subzero temperature of escaping anhydrous ammonia freezes clothing to the body. Anhydrous ammonia injuries occurring i … The presence of dissolved nitrogen dioxide increases the density of the aqueous and the anhydrous acid, [23] anhydrous nitric acid containing 25% NO 2 has a density of around 1. Abstract Acute anhydrous ammonia burns are relatively rare but lethal and often occur as a mass occupational incident worldwide. Since one volume of nitrogen weighs fourteen times as much as one volume of hydrogen, on a weight basis, the ratio is fourteen parts of nitrogen to three parts of hydrogen, or There have been some reports of corn seedling burn with anhydrous ammonia application in the state. However, the water-absorbing nature of ammonia causes the greatest injury, especially to the eyes Anhydrous ammonia, a caustic compound commonly used in industry, can cause severe burns, even with brief contact. Learn the risks of ammonia exposure, from burns to respiratory damage, and explore prevention tips with proper PPE, labeling, and emergency protocols. Anhydrous ammonia reacts with moisture in the mucous membranes to produce an alkaline solution (ammonium hydroxide). This perception probably arises from North American transport regulations which classify anhydrous ammonia as "a non-flammable" gas. Prolonged breathing can cause suffocation. External exposure is often preventable with proper safety measures, while internal buildup requires medical management. Ammonia in this form is also known as ammonia gas or anhydrous (“without water”) ammonia. Ammonia easily dissolves in water. Delivering proper first aid in the event of an injury from exposure to anhydrous ammonia is critical. Symptoms of anhydrous ammonia exposure include breathing difficulty; irritation of the eyes, nose or throat; burns or blisters. Unique to our series is the largest collection of injuries (30%) resulting from the common fertilizer anhydrous ammonia. Episode Resources Iowa State University Extension: Play it safe with anhydrous ammonia (2-page pdf) AgriSafe webinar: Anhydrous ammonia safety for farmworkers NECAS Anhydrous Ammonia Safety Fact Sheet Preventing Ammonia Burns and How to Treat Them Ammonia, while not extremely dangerous in normal household quantities, can be an extremely dangerous gas or liquid when the concentration of the chemical is high enough. It is lighter than air and flammable, with difficulty, at high concentrations and temperatures. Under normal temperature and pressure, NH 3 is colorless gas that is lighter than air. Learn about the immediate effects, symptoms, and proper first aid steps to minimize damage. He also talks about the increased presence of anhydrous tanks on the roads this time of year. We present five patients with ammonia in-jury treated at our burn center after an explosion in a warehouse. In liquid form, it can hurt a person’s skin or eyes. However, the water-absorbing nature of ammonia causes the greatest injury, especially to the eyes Anhydrous Ammonia Burns Case Report and Review of the Literature Abstract: Chemical burns are associated with significant morbidity, especially anhydrous ammonia burns. Ammonia poisoning can be serious. Initial treatment in the majority of cases consists of extensive irrigation with water. Each patient was exposed to ammonia liquid and vapors simultaneously when a tank When liquid anhydrous ammonia is released into the atmosphere, it immediately starts to evaporate and lower the ambient temperature. Skin contact with high concentrations of Anhydrous Ammonia may cause severe chemical burns. However, at concentrations greater than 300 parts per million, ammonia may be dangerous to life and health and its effects may be irreversible. This is only a synopsis of anhydrous ammonia safety information. High concentrations of anhydrous ammonia can cause chemical burns to the eyes, lungs and skin. Abstract. As with other alkali burns, early irrigation to remove the ammonia from burned Ammonia concerns prompt shelter-in-place order Due to concerns about the facility’s anhydrous ammonia refrigeration system — commonly used in poultry and other food processing plants — authorities issued a precautionary shelter-in-place order, according to Cincinnati. Plant corn several inches away from the anhydrous ammonia injection zone to reduce injury potential. Even mild exposure can cause irritation to tissues of the eyes, nose and lungs. The term "anhydrous [19] [20] Hence, exposure to gaseous anhydrous ammonia results in corneal injury and burns on the skin. Learn how to decontaminate and treat eye, skin, inhalation and ingestion injuries caused by anhydrous ammonia, a corrosive gas or liquid. All associated personnel should be familiar with the safe use of anhydrous ammonia, understand the potential for injury and know how to respond to an emergency. Water is the most important emergency treatment before advanced medical services arrive. This is why it turns into a vapor when it is released at ambient temperatures. Because of its low boiling point, anhydrous ammonia can burn by freezing as well as by caustic action. The lowest level at which humans can detect the odor of ammonia is ~ 5-10 ppm v/v, (odor threshold) and this generally provides sufficient warning of expos Chemical burns are associated with significant morbidity, especially anhydrous ammonia burns. Anhydrous Ammonia Introduction Anhydrous ammonia is a gaseous form of ammonia “Anhydrous” comes from the Greek word for “without water. The lowest level at which humans can detect the odor of ammonia is ~ 5-10 ppm v/v, (odor threshold) and this generally provides sufficient warning of expos Ammonia is a colorless gas with a very sharp odor. Frostbite can occur with exposure to anhydrous ammonia. It may also result in frostbite, since its boiling point is - 28oF. It is important for all individuals working with this type of fertilizer to understand the potential risks, necessary safety precautions, and proper response in the event of accidental contact. Survivors suffering Other Names: Anhydrous ammonia, Liquid ammonia Main Uses: Used as a fertilizer, to make plastics, fibers and other chemicals, as a refrigerant, and in many other applications. Learn about the compound’s safety considerations and proper handling guidelines. The dangers of ammonia Breathing ammonia gas can be fatal. Stop flow of gas or let burn. It serves as an effective industrial refrigerant gas, which presents unique challenges to safely manage. NH 3 is stored, transported and handled as a liquid via pressured tanks. A 28 year-old patient suffered 45% total body surface area of second and third degree burns as wel … However, at concentrations greater than 300 parts per million, ammonia may be dangerous to life and health and its effects may be irreversible. In the acute phase the patient presented with severe tracheobronchitis and respiratory failure, caused by very severe Anhydrous Ammonia Safety Anhydrous ammonia is one of the most efficient and widely used sources of nitrogen for plant growth, making it a staple in modern agriculture. • Exposure to anhydrous ammonia can result in substantial injury to the respiratory system, eyes, and integument. Two cases of identical exposure to industrial strength ammonia are … Anhydrous ammonia, a widespread industrial chemical, can cause severe inhalation and ophthalmic injuries, as well as cutaneous burns. Anhydrous ammonia (NH3) is a nitrogen crop fertilizer that can cause severe chemical burns; frostbite to the eyes, skin, and respiratory tract; and death. If a person comes into contact with very strong ammonia, he or she can be severely injured or burned. 3, 5 4. Substantial exposures to concentrated aerosols of ammonium hydroxide, elevated levels of ammonia gas or anhydrous ammonia fumes can cause burns of all depths in the oral cavity, nasopharynx [19] [20] Hence, exposure to gaseous anhydrous ammonia results in corneal injury and burns on the skin. Anhydrous ammonia mainly leads to severe inhalation injury and skin/mucosa wound because of its high water solubility and strong alkalinity. In low concentrations, exposure to ammonia gas causes irritation to the eyes and the respiratory system, and liquefied or pressurized ammonia can cause chemical and freezing burns to the skin and eyes. Ammonia dissolves readily in water to form ammonium hydroxide-an alkaline Anhydrous ammonia is a strong alkali that can cause painful skin burns. er). These effects can harm workers if there is an accidental release. IV fluids to prevent dehydration. The primary first aid treatment is flushing with fresh, clean water. The level of danger depends on the ammonia concentration and length of exposure. Ammonia is usually shipped as a compressed liquid in steel cylinders. . The chemical burns due to ammonia have been well documented, but the contribution of a cold (frostbite) injury that results from the evaporation of pressurized anhydrous liquid ammonia has only been recently highlighted [2]. The injuries associated with anhydrous ammonia burns are primarily due to the effects of ammonium hydroxide, which is the product of ammonia dissolved in water. There have been some reports of corn seedling burn with anhydrous ammonia application in the state. Anhydrous ammonia is a relatively common cause of chemical injuries. Ammonia in this form is also known as ammonia gas or anhydrous ("without water") ammonia. Blindness, Lung Damage, Burns, and Death CHECKLIST FOR ANHYDROUS AMMONIA SAFETY Wear personal protective equipment, Always have ample water supply, Inspect and replace hoses and valves as needed, Never fill a tank over 85 percent of capacity, Bleed off hose pressure before disconnecting, Stay clear of hose valve openings, and Follow regulations Another concern is the low boiling point of anhydrous ammonia. Essential safety information for chemical burns. As with other alkali burns, early irrigation to remove the ammonia from burned areas is crucial to limit tissue damage. At very high levels, ammonia can even cause death. Exposure to high levels of ammonia can cause irritation and serious burns on the skin and in the mouth, throat, lungs, and eyes. The toxicity of ammonia depends on its concentration. It is stored and transported under pressure as a liquid but becomes a gas at atmospheric pressure. The freezing point of anhydrous ammonia is -108°F, which means that when anhydrous ammonia changes from liquid to a vapor, it is at first very cold, which can further damage human and plant tissues. Most household products containing ammonia are safe when used as directed, but some have the potential to cause burns. Sep 6, 2024 · Exposure to high levels of ammonia may hurt your skin, eyes, throat, and lungs and cause coughing and burns. [24] The maximum density of anhydrous nitric acid is attained at 40% (w/w) NO 2. : Anhydrous ammonia, a caustic compound commonly used in industry, can cause severe burns, even with brief contact. Medications such as antibiotics to prevent infections in case of liquid ammonia burns, or steroids to reduce inflammation in tissues damaged by ammonia. ” Interestingly, more than 1% of the world’s energy production is dedicated to the manufacturing of ammonia. Anhydrous ammonia is a colorless, pungent gas that is stored and transported under pressure in liquid form. Two cases of identical exposure to industrial strength ammonia are presented. The lowest level at which humans can detect the odor of ammonia is ~ 5-10 ppm v/v, (odor threshold) and this generally provides sufficient warning of expos Anhydrous means "without water. When ammonia is ingested, nausea and vomiting may result; oral, esophageal, and stomach burns are common. if someone is exposed to anhydrous ammonia, they should seek medical attention immediately. [25][26] BPS provides high-performance pressure relief valves for a wide variety of applications including transportation, storage, food and pharmaceuticals, chemical transport, and LP gas and anhydrous ammonia service. Anhydrous ammonia is extremely soluble in water and then turns into ammonium hydroxide, which causes skin burn, eye injury, inhalation injury, and pulmonary blast injury to people in the vicinity [2]. People are typically injured due to ammonia exposure through inhalation, skin or eye contact, and Anhydrous ammonia is very corrosive, and exposure to it may result in chemical-type burns to skin, eyes, and lungs. Exposure to very high concentrations of ammonia gas can cause pulmonary edema, upper respiratory irritation, tearing of the eyes, increased pulse rate and increased blood pressure. [10] Anhydrous ammonia injury to the skin. Learn how to treat an ammonia burn on skin with immediate first aid flushing, and understand when to seek emergency medical attention. A lifelong non-smoker who was the victim of a massive accidental exposure to anhydrous ammonia gas was followed up for 10 years. In gas form, it can do extensive damage to a person’s internal organs. Anhydrous ammonia is caustic and will cause severe burns to the eyes, skin and respiratory tract. Anhydrous ammonia, a caustic compound commonly used in industry, can cause severe burns, even with brief contact. Lung damage and death may occur after exposure to very high levels of ammonia. Exposure to the eyes can cause pain and excessive tearing, in addition to injury to the corneas. The odor of ammonia is familiar to most people because ammonia is used in smelling salts, household cleaners, and window cleaning products. Acute ammonia exposure can irritate the skin and burn the eyes, causing temporary or permanent blindness. Another population of concern, accounting for 14% of the injuries in our unit, is that of patients injured at home with routine household cleaners. The term "anhydrous" means "without water," therefore, anhydrous ammonia has a strong affinity for water and will seek out moist areas to combine with water, making the human body particularly vulnerable. 8 Ammonia Background: Ammonia (anhydrous) is a corrosive colorless gas with a strong odor. As liquid anhydrous ammonia vaporizes it has a temperature of -28°F, which can cause severe frostbite type burns. Despite its benefits, anhydrous ammonia is also one of the most hazardous chemicals used in agriculture. " If anhydrous ammonia combines with water in the human body, it can cause rapid dehydration and severe burns. RODUCED IN FIRE, including Nitr CONTAINERS MAY EXPLODE IN FIRE. Chemical burns are associated with significant morbidity, especially anhydrous ammonia burns. Household ammonia solutions are much less concentrated (~ 5-10%) and rarely cause burns, but can cause irritation. Anhydrous ammonia is hygroscopic. Anhydrous ammonia – used in manufacturing, refrigeration and agriculture – is a pungent, colorless and toxic gas or liquid that, when concentrated, is corrosive to human tissue upon contact, according to NIOSH. We present five patients with ammonia injury treated at our burn center after an explosion in a warehouse. High concentrations of ammonia in the lungs can lead to respiratory distress and lung damage. Exposure to ammonia gas or ammonium hydroxide can result in corrosive injury to the mucous membranes of the eyes, lungs, and gastrointestinal tract and to the skin due to the alkaline pH and the hygroscopic nature of ammonia. Exposure to anhydrous ammonia may produce serious injury to the eyes, respiratory system, and integument. Anhydrous ammonia is the form used primarily in refrigeration and agriculture. Jan 1, 2000 · Anhydrous ammonia, a caustic compound commonly used in industry, can cause severe burns, even with brief contact. Anhydrous ammonia is a strong alkali that can cause severe burns, and its gas can cause severe irritation of the outer tissues of the eyes, nose, throat, and lungs. The remaining 175 flights of the X-15 used XLR99 engines, in a single engine configuration. Contact with concentrated ammonia solutions such as industrial strength cleaners may cause corrosive injuries like skin burns, permanent eye damage, or blindness. There is a widespread belief in North America that ammonia does not burn. Aug 11, 2025 · Anhydrous ammonia and cement are among the more common causes of alkali burns. There is no protective clothing to protect It becomes a clear, colorless liquid under increased pressure. It is easily compressed and forms a clear, colorless liquid under pressure. Farmers throughout Ohio use anhydrous ammonia (NH3) as one source of nitrogen fertilizer for crops. The primary purpose of this chapter is to provide public health officials, physicians, toxicologists, and other interested individuals and groups with an overall perspective on the toxicology of ammonia. “As liquid anhydrous ammonia is released from its container into the air, it expands rapidly, forming a large cloud that acts like a heavier-than-air gas for a period of time ANHYDROUS AMMONIA PROPERTIES Anhydrous ammonia is the compound formed by the combination of the two gaseous elements, nitrogen and hydrogen, in the proportion of one part of nitrogen to three parts of hydrogen by volume. As with other alkali burns, ear At room temperature, anhydrous ammonia is a colorless, highly irritating gas with a pungent, suffocating odor. k1za0, z259, rtkik, l6g8, 5ct15o, zqlyup, nn6gc, js0r, 3waanc, anix,