Ammonium chloride boasts a rich and ancient history, with its origins traced back to Ancient Egypt, where it was identified in the Temple of Zeus-Ammon. Historical records reveal that the Chinese were already harnessing the versatility of this compound as early as 554 A.D, highlighting its enduring presence throughout the ages.
How do we use it today?
In contemporary times, ammonium chloride plays a pivotal role in various industries. Ammonium chloride is a compound with the chemical formula NH₄Cl. It comprises ammonium (NH₄⁺) and chloride (Cl⁻). The ammonium ion is a positively charged polyatomic ion with the formula NH₄⁺, and the chloride ion is a negatively charged ion with the formula Cl⁻. When these ions combine, they form the ionic compound ammonium chloride. The elements involved in the formation of ammonium chloride are nitrogen (N), hydrogen (H), and chlorine (Cl).
Ammonium chloride plays a crucial part in supporting plant growth and fostering optimal soil conditions for enhanced agricultural productivity.
Commercially, ammonium chloride is used as a fertiliser to supply plants with nitrogen and enhance soil structure. Some fertilisers are formulated to combine different compounds for a broader range of nutrients. Calcium-containing compounds, like calcium nitrate or calcium chloride, may be added separately to these fertilisers to improve soil structure and provide calcium as a nutrient to plants. These additional compounds are mixed with ammonium chloride or other fertilisers to create a balanced blend suitable for specific soil and plant requirements.
Surprisingly, ammonium chloride has found its way into the food industry. Beyond its use in baking to impart an exceptionally crisp texture to cookies, it serves as a flavouring agent in dark sweets like salty liquorice, particularly popular in Nordic countries, Benelux, and northern Germany. This adds an exciting and unconventional element to certain types of confectionery.
How can we help?
Redox, a global leader in ammonium chloride distribution, meets the diverse needs of customers worldwide, from Australia and New Zealand to Malaysia, the USA, and Mexico. Responding proactively to market demands, Redox remains committed to satisfying clients’ requirements globally.
Our ammonium chloride is available in various packing sizes, including 25kg and 1000kg bulk bags, coming in a range of grades such as 99.5% min powder/granular and conforming to FAMI-QS and Food Safety Regulation.
Connect with one of Redox’s experts to explore how their offerings can be integral to your sourcing strategy.