Newsroom
All News Releases By Date
PA EPA ISSUES ALERT ON AMMONIUM NITRATE
Release Date: 01/09/98
Contact Information:
FOR RELEASE: FRIDAY, JANUARY 9, 1998
EPA ISSUES ALERT ON AMMONIUM NITRATE
EPA is issuing an alert on ammonium nitrate as part of its on-going effort to increase awareness of possible hazards in order that appropriate steps can be taken to minimize risks. Ammonium nitrate primarily is used as a fertilizer, but it is also widely used with additives as a blasting agent. Ammonium nitrate can be exploded under certain conditions that includes adding energy (heat, shock), especially under conditions of confinement or presence of contaminants. Although ammonium nitrate generally is used safely and normally is stable and unlikely to explode accidental explosions of ammonium nitrate have resulted in loss of lives and destruction of property. Facilities should be aware of the hazards of ammonium nitrate and ensure that the conditions that may lead to an explosion are not present. Actions that may help to prevent explosions include: avoiding heating ammonium nitrate in a confined space; avoiding localized heating of ammonium nitrate; ensuring that it is not exposed to strong shock waves from explosives; avoiding contamination of ammonium nitrate with inorganic materials that may contribute to its sensitivity to explosion, including chlorides and some metals such as chromium, copper, cobalt and nickel; and maintain the pH of ammonium nitrate solutions within the safe operating range of the process, particularly avoid low pH (acidic) conditions. For further information contact the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Hotline at 1-800-424-9346 or 703-412-9810.
R-3 ###
Search this collection of releases | or search all news releases
View selected historical press releases from 1970 to 1998 in the EPA History website.
