Kalsiumammoniumnitrat

Kalsiumammoniumnitrat, often abbreviated as CAN, is a chemical compound with the formula 5Ca(NO3)2·NH4NO3·10H2O. It is a mixture of calcium nitrate and ammonium nitrate, typically produced by reacting limestone with nitric acid and then adding ammonium nitrate. CAN is a widely used nitrogen fertilizer, particularly in agriculture. Its key advantage is that it provides nitrogen in both readily available nitrate form and a slower-releasing ammonium form, which can reduce nitrogen loss from the soil.

The physical appearance of CAN is usually as white or off-white granules. It is soluble in water, which is important for its application as a fertilizer, allowing for easy uptake by plants. Unlike pure ammonium nitrate, CAN is less prone to detonation and is therefore safer to handle and store. This characteristic has made it a preferred choice in many regions.

CAN also contributes calcium to the soil, an essential plant nutrient that plays a role in cell wall structure and plant growth. The presence of both nitrogen and calcium makes it a valuable fertilizer for a variety of crops. Its production and use are significant in the global fertilizer market, contributing to increased crop yields and food production. Environmental considerations related to nitrogen use, such as potential leaching and greenhouse gas emissions, are also associated with CAN, as with all nitrogen fertilizers.