At a glance, ammonium dichromate is a soil compound that comes in bright orange and crystalline form. The chemical formula of ammonium dichromate is (NH4) 2CR2O7. The compound look like needles that are produced in the process of crystallization. Ammonium Dichromate is available with multiple speciality chemical companies in Mumbai.
Physical and general properties
- Ammonium dichromate has a density of 2.12 g/cm3.
- Its molecular mass of 252.07 g/mol.
- It has a melting point of 1800C.
- Its autoignition temperature is 190oC.
- Ammonium dichromate does not have any odour.
- Ammonium dichromate has a specific gravity of 2.1500 and does not dissolve in acetone or alcohol.
Uses
- Ammonium dichromate is commonly used in lithography to sensitize solutions.
- Apart from this, ammonium dichromate is also very popular in the field of photography as an alternative to potassium dichromate.
- In the textile industry, this chemical is also useful for processes like, pigmentation and dyeing.
- It is known to create a light-sensitive emulsion when mixed with water and albumin, making it useful in photolithography and pyrotechnics fields.
Chemical Properties Of Ammonium Dichromate
When heated, this chemical is known to quickly decompose, leading to chromium oxide (III) and nitrogen gas formation. In the laboratory, it often serves as a source of nitrogen dioxide, water vapor, and solid chromium (III) oxide.
Thermal decomposition of Ammonium Dichromate (tabletop volcanoes)
A typical experiment involves pouring a small portion of this powder into a conical heap. You can then get this ignited by placing a small wick, (a wooden splint of 3cm soaked in ethanol) at the top of the pile. You can then light the wick and wait for what happens.
It is when one sees the orange sparks with green chromium (III) oxide thrown into the air in the form of crystals. Sparks, ash, steam, and nitrogen gas are what you find in the entire process showing you how reactive this chemical can be.
The experiment must be strictly conducted on a heat-proof mat and further placed on a metal tray. At the end of the day, when experimenting with ammonium dichromate one cannot be too safe.
While the above experiment can take just an overall of two minutes, the total time in the laboratory is always much longer for the preparation needed to have a safe demonstration.
One needs to have all the right gear including eye protection goggles, tongs, gloves, a fume cupboard, and so on.
The scene often resembles a miniature volcanic eruption. The crystals that now form are fluffier in appearance compared to the original ammonium dichromate crystals, and the amount of chemical appears larger even though a lot of it had escaped in the form of vapor.
This experiment is an example of an exothermic decomposition of Ammonium Dichromate. Hence, ammonium dichromate often finds applications in fireworks and other similar presentations.
Safety concerns
Ammonium dichromate is flammable and is a strong oxidizer hence, it must be kept far away from materials that can lead to fire hazards.
It can cause the skin to burn and damage certain membranes due to improper use. In other words, ammonium dichromate is very harmful, more so to the skin and the respiratory tract but to a person’s overall health in general too.
It is also toxic, which means a little ingestion, even by inhalation, and can indeed cause a lot of harm to the user’s body. It is for these reasons that this is a chemical that needs to be handled wisely and with care.
One also needs to remember that this chemical is a carcinogen. In other words, it has cancer-causing agents. Wearing gloves and the right eye protection is a must on working with this chemical, apart from a few other health and safety measures. However, the chemical stays stable when stored under the recommended conditions.
Final thoughts
Ammonium Dichromate finds extensive applications in different fields. However, the chemical also requires careful handling and storage. It is essential to consult reputed chemical suppliers in India to ensure safety and high chemical quality.
Where can I buy ammonium dichromate?
Amizara Speciality Chemicals LLP is a leading supplier for buying ammonium dichromate. This company is a top Speciality chemical grade manufacturer and supplier.
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