Ammonium chloride (NH4Cl) is a versatile compound with various applications across different industries. Some common uses of ammonium chloride include:
Fertilizers
Ammonium chloride is used as a nitrogen source in fertilizers, particularly in agricultural applications. It provides essential nitrogen for plant growth and helps improve soil fertility.
Electroplating
Ammonium chloride is employed as a flux in electroplating processes, where it helps remove oxides from metal surfaces and promotes adhesion between the substrate and the plating material.
Medicinal
In medicine, ammonium chloride has been historically used as an expectorant to help loosen mucus and relieve coughs. It is also used in certain medications as a urinary acidifier to help treat certain urinary tract disorders.
Food Additive
Ammonium chloride is approved as a food additive (E number E510) and is used as a flavoring agent, pH control agent, and yeast nutrient in various food products such as bread, snacks, and confectionery.
Dry Cell Batteries
Ammonium chloride is a key component in the electrolyte of certain types of dry cell batteries, including zinc-carbon batteries. It helps to facilitate the flow of ions between the electrodes, allowing for the generation of electrical energy.
Textile Printing
Ammonium chloride is used in textile printing and dyeing processes as a resist agent to create sharp and defined patterns on fabrics. It helps prevent unwanted dye penetration into specific areas of the fabric.
Fire Extinguishers
Ammonium chloride-based fire extinguishers, known as Class D fire extinguishers, are used to suppress fires involving combustible metals such as magnesium, titanium, and lithium.
pH Buffer
Ammonium chloride is used as a buffer solution in various chemical processes and industrial applications to control pH levels and maintain stable reaction conditions.