Released outdoors it is difficult for ammonia to reach its lower flammability limit except for small zones in the immediate vicinity of the leak. Even when large quantities of liquid are released, ignitable concentrations tend to be in discontinuous pockets. Coupled with its low heat of combustion and low flame velocity, the possibility of sustained ignition is reduced. The most likely result of an unconfined ammonia release is an unignited vapor cloud. Experience indicates that similar circumstances apply when ammonia is released indoors in reasonably well ventilated buildings, in confined spaces, such as refrigerated process or storage areas, however, the release of liquid or large quantities of vapor can result in the accumulation of a flammable mixture with potential for a combustion explosion with attendant major structural damage.
Ammonia can react violently with halogens, such as chlorine, fluorine and bromine.
Gold, silver and mercury can react with ammonia to form explosive compounds. Explosive metal hydrides are produced when hydrazine and alkali metals are mixed in liquid ammonia. Acetylene in the presence of ammonia cal solutions will form acetylides with copper, mercury or silver salts. In the dry state, these acetylides are highly explosive. Ammonia leakage during transport delivery.