Why ammonia reactor material matters

Heated ammonia is known to have a strong corrosive property, which is characterized by its ability to attack and damage many materials, including steel, stainless steel, copper, brass, aluminum, and some plastics. The reason behind this strong corrosive property lies in the chemical properties of ammonia.

Ammonia is a gas with a formula of NH3, which consists of one nitrogen atom and three hydrogen atoms. The nitrogen atom is highly polar and highly electronegative, which means it can form strong hydrogen bonds with other atoms or molecules. This property is the basis for ammonia's strong corrosive nature.

When ammonia comes in contact with surfaces made of certain metals such as steel, stainless steel, copper, brass, aluminum or certain plastics, it forms strong chemical bonds with the surface, resulting in a strong attack and damage to the surface.

Heated ammonia is more corrosive than gaseous ammonia because heating ammonia causes it to evaporate and form a high concentration of ammonia gas in a confined space. This high concentration of ammonia gas results in a much more rapid and extreme chemical attack on the surface, leading to even more severe damage.

In order to minimize the corrosive nature of heated ammonia, proper safety precautions must be taken. Some of the recommended safety measures include proper ventilation and exhaust systems, the use of protective gloves and apparel, and the provision of training and instruction to staff. Additionally, the use of materials that are resistant to the corrosive effects of ammonia must be considered, such as plastic, stainless steel, or titanium.

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