Ammonium nitrate: application and method of production

Today, one of the most common fertilizers is ammonium nitrate. Its application is based on a pronounced effect on the yield of cereals. Its use significantly increases the return on each hectare of agricultural land. In appearance, ammonium nitrate is the second name, which has ammonium nitrate (its application is very popular today), is crystals that do not have color. They have excellent hygroscopicity, so they absorb the atmospheric moisture well and dissolve rapidly in water.

The technology of production of this material includes the neutralization of the acid by ammonia and subsequent evaporation of the solution. Ammonium nitrate is granulated in special spraying units, after which it is cooled and covered with chemical composition from caking. From one to four millimeters - the usual particle size, in the form of which is produced ammonium nitrate. Its use is mainly due to the high content of nutrient nitrogen and the good friability of the fertilizer. Then the material is packed into containers of various volumes (soft containers, bags) or sent to the consumer in bulk form in special wagons.

In the production process, certain additions of ammonium nitrate may be obtained , the price of which in this case will depend on the type of additional ingredient. Most often these are conditioning substances that have magnesium, sulfates (sometimes with phosphates), calcium. Upon agreement with the consumer, other new additives not provided for by standard technologies may be used.

Due to the strong oxidizing properties that ammonium nitrate has, the use and handling of this substance must be carried out with certain precautions. In particular, it can not be stored for a long time (more than six months) and in large piles, since during caking this material becomes also explosive. The premises in which it is stored should be well ventilated and dry. Store and transport ammonium nitrate separately from other chemicals. In addition, people who work with the use of this chemical, you need to follow their own safety measures (wear a protective suit, respirator, glasses).

Crop production is the main industry for which ammonium nitrate is produced. Buy it most often want agricultural producers engaged in the cultivation of cereals. It can be used for all types of soil. As a rule, it is used as a top dressing for winter crops or as the main fertilizer for all types of cereals. Very good ammonium nitrate affects the effectiveness of growing spring wheat. Its application provides excellent resistance to fungal diseases and strong stems from cereals. Especially effective is the combination of ammonium nitrate with phosphate and potassium fertilizers. On acidic soils it is recommended to add calcareous flour. On light soils, the fertilizer must be applied immediately before sowing.

In addition to agriculture, it, thanks to its oxidizing properties, is widely used in industry (for the production of explosives, fuel).