Ammonia Anhydrous ammonia is one of the most common forms of nitrogen fertilizer used in Texas. Pound for pound, it is the cheapest source of nitrogen available. However, it can be one of the most hazardous forms of nitrogen to handle in terms of human exposure. Thus, I thought it might be appropriate to list some important facts about this material. By knowing more about anhydrous ammonia and its properties, potential problems with its handling can be reduced.
Anhydrous ammonia is a hydroscopic compound.
This means that it seeks out water from the nearest source, including the human body. Most deaths from anhydrous ammonia are caused by severe damage to the throat and lungs which ultimately results in suffocation. Anhydrous ammonia freezes on contact at room temperature. It can cause burns similar to, but more severe than, dry ice. Humans can detect the concentration of anhydrous ammonia in concentrations as low as 5 ppm.