Ammoniakvatten

Ammoniakvatten, commonly called ammonium hydroxide, is an aqueous solution of ammonia (NH3) in water. It is sold in varying concentrations, from household products around 3–10% NH3 by weight to industrial solutions that can reach about 25–30%. The solution is colorless and has a characteristic pungent odor. It is highly soluble in water and forms a basic (alkaline) solution; the pH depends on concentration, typically around 11–13 for common household strengths. In water, ammonia establishes the equilibrium NH3 + H2O ⇌ NH4+ + OH−.

Chemical properties and handling considerations include that ammoniakvatten reacts with acids to form corresponding ammonium salts (for example NH3 + HCl → NH4Cl). It can release ammonia gas if concentrated or heated, and exposure to its vapors can irritate the eyes, skin, and respiratory tract. It is compatible with many solvents but can corrode some metals and should be stored away from acids, oxidizers, heat, and incompatible materials. Containers should be well ventilated, tightly closed, and protected from freezing or excessive heat. Environmental releases in high concentrations can be harmful to aquatic life.

Production and forms: commercially, ammonia gas is dissolved in water to produce ammoniakvatten; the concentration and supplier determine the exact formulation. In industry, it may be supplied as dilute solutions for cleaning or as concentrated stock solutions for chemical synthesis and pH adjustment.

Applications: primary uses include household cleaning and deodorizing, glass and surface cleaning, and pH adjustment in laboratories and certain industrial processes. It is also employed in agriculture as a nitrogen source for plants and in some manufacturing settings as a precursor or reagent for chemical synthesis.

Safety and regulation: due to irritant and caustic properties, appropriate personal protective equipment, ventilation, and adherence to local regulatory guidelines are essential when handling ammoniakvatten.