Ammonium carbonate

About Ammonium carbonate

Ammonium Carbonate is a white, crystalline inorganic salt with a strong ammonia odor. It is readily soluble in water and decomposes upon heating, releasing ammonia and carbon dioxide. It is commonly used as a leavening agent, buffering agent, laboratory reagent, and in various industrial and chemical applications.

Product Characteristics

Ammonium carbonate appears as a white crystalline powder with a sharp, strong odor noticeable even at low concentrations. With a density of 1.50 g/cm3 at 20C and a molecular weight of 96.09 g/mol, it is highly soluble in water. Notably, it decomposes at 58C, releasing ammonia and carbon dioxide, and does not melt or boil in the traditional sense. Chemically, the compound reacts with acids, and its solid nature means pH level is not directly applicable.


Safe Handling and Storage

To preserve longevity-typically between 12 and 24 months-ammonium carbonate should be stored in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated space with the container tightly closed. Users must wear gloves and eye protection and work in areas with proper ventilation due to the potential release of ammonia gas, which can be harmful by inhalation or ingestion. It is supplied in 25 kg HDPE bags with liners to avoid contamination and moisture ingress.


Applications and Uses

This chemical finds broad utility in food and pharmaceutical industries, especially in baking powders as a leavening agent and in smelling salts. Laboratories employ it as a reagent due to its predictable decomposition. Its solubility in water aids easy incorporation in a variety of formulations. The strong, recognizably ammonia odor also finds use in applications where a volatile base is required.