Disassociated ammonia is a gas mixture that is primarily made up of hydrogen (75%) and nitrogen (25%).
This mixture is usually created by heating ammonia in a process called thermal cracking.
The resulting gas is very good at cleaning copper and brass surfaces by removing oxidation without needing any extra chemicals.
1. Composition and Generation
Disassociated ammonia is made by breaking down ammonia (NH3) into hydrogen and nitrogen.
This is done by heating ammonia to a very high temperature, which causes it to split into its basic parts.
The gas that comes out is rich in hydrogen, which helps to reduce oxides on metal surfaces, making them better for things like sticking together or flowing smoothly.
2. Applications
The main use of disassociated ammonia is in treating metals, especially copper and brass.
It helps to remove oxidation, which can make the metal look better and work better.
It's also used in heat treatment processes where a hydrogen-rich environment can improve the metal's surface properties.
However, some metals, like 300 series stainless steel, need to be treated in a 100% hydrogen atmosphere to avoid any damage from nitrogen.
3. Disadvantages
Even though disassociated ammonia has been important and useful in heat treatment, it has some downsides.
It often doesn't give the best results for metal properties, just okay ones.
The cost of metallurgical grade ammonia is going up, and there are more rules about how to store and use it safely.
There's also a risk of leaks, which can be dangerous, and the possibility of sabotage adds to the safety concerns.
4. Regulatory and Safety Considerations
Both ammonia and hydrogen are considered very dangerous by the EPA and OSHA.
There are strict rules about how to store and handle them to avoid any accidents.
Ammonia is a strong irritant and toxic gas, so it's very dangerous if you breathe it in or swallow it.
It can also explode if it leaks into an area that gets hot.
5. Summary
Disassociated ammonia is good for some metal treatments because it's cost-effective and efficient.
But, it has some problems with cost, rules, and safety.
Because of this, people are starting to use other methods and gases that give better results and are safer.
Continue exploring, consult our experts
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