Ammoniumkloridin

Ammoniumkloridin is not a standard term in chemical nomenclature. It may appear as a misspelling or regional variant of ammonium chloride (NH4Cl). This article describes ammonium chloride, the substance most commonly associated with the name.

Chemical identity and properties: Ammonium chloride is an inorganic salt composed of ammonium cations (NH4+) and chloride anions (Cl−). It appears as a white, crystalline solid at room temperature and is highly soluble in water. In solution it forms a mildly acidic medium due to the hydrolysis of the ammonium ion.

Occurrence and production: In nature, a mineral form known as sal ammoniac occurs in volcanic environments. Industrial production is typically accomplished by the reaction of ammonia (NH3) with hydrogen chloride (HCl) gas: NH3 + HCl → NH4Cl. It can also arise as a byproduct in processes involving ammonia and chlorine chemistry.

Uses: Ammonium chloride has a range of applications, including as an electrolyte in certain batteries, a flux in soldering and metalworking, and as a nitrogen source in fertilizers. It is also used as a food additive in some jurisdictions and as a chemical feedstock in various syntheses.

Safety and handling: Ammonium chloride is an irritant to skin, eyes, and the respiratory tract. Dust or aerosols can cause irritation; exposure should be minimized with appropriate personal protective equipment and adequate ventilation. It should be stored in a dry environment away from incompatibles. At elevated temperatures it can decompose and release hydrogen chloride gas.

Name and terminology: The term ammoniumkloridin is not standard; in most contexts the substance is referred to as ammonium chloride. In German-language sources, the name is typically ammoniumchlorid.