alcoholwaterammonia

Alcoholwaterammonia is not a single chemical but a descriptive label for ternary solvent systems that contain an alcohol, water, and ammonia. The composition is variable and can be tuned for specific applications. Common alcohol components are ethanol, methanol, or isopropanol, but other short-chain alcohols may be used. In industrial and laboratory contexts, such mixtures serve as polar, basic solvents that can dissolve a wide range of organic and inorganic species.

All three components are miscible with each other over broad ranges of composition and temperature, though the exact phase behavior depends on the alcohol type and concentration. Ammonia readily dissolves in water, yielding an alkaline solution, and the presence of alcohol can modify volatility and flammability. The mixture's pH is typically basic due to dissolved ammonia; the mixture may release ammonia vapor, especially at higher temperatures.

Uses include cleaning and degreasing, extraction of polar and moderately nonpolar compounds, and as a reaction medium in certain chemical syntheses. The solvent strength and selectivity depend on the alcohol and ammonia concentration as well as temperature.

Safety and handling: ammonia and ammonia vapors are caustic and irritating to skin, eyes, and the respiratory tract; alcohols are flammable and can form explosive vapour–air mixtures. The combination requires adequate ventilation, avoidance of ignition sources, and proper containment in corrosion-resistant equipment. Storage should be in tightly sealed, vented containers away from oxidizers and acids.