Ammonium Oxolate

Product Description

Ammonium Oxolate 

Ammonium Oxalate is a chemical compound with the formula (NH„)CO„. It is the ammonium salt of oxalic acid and is commonly found in both monohydrate and anhydrous forms. It is used in a variety of industrial and laboratory applications.

Chemical Properties

• Chemical Formula: (NH„)CO„
• Molecular Weight: 124.10 g/mol
• Appearance: White crystalline solid (monohydrate) or powder
• Solubility: Soluble in water
• Melting Point: Decomposes before melting at 200C
• Density: 1.8 g/cm³ (monohydrate)
• pH: Slightly acidic in solution

Applications

1. Laboratory Use

   • Reagent: Ammonium oxalate is commonly used in laboratories as a reagent for various chemical reactions. It is used in gravimetric analysis to determine the concentration of calcium and magnesium ions.
   • Titration: It plays a significant role in the preparation of standard solutions used in titration experiments.

2. Chemical Industry

   • Production of Oxalates: Ammonium oxalate is used as a precursor in the production of various oxalate salts, such as calcium oxalate, which is used in industries like paper and textiles.
   • Extraction: It is used in the extraction of metals from ores, particularly for the removal of impurities.

3. Photography Industry

   • Photographic Chemicals: It is used in the photographic industry to make compounds such as ammonium thiocyanate, which is essential in the development of photographic films.

4. Water Treatment

   • Precipitation of Calcium: Ammonium oxalate can be used in water treatment processes to remove calcium ions, preventing scale formation in pipes and equipment.

5. Purification and Refining

   • Purification of Metals: It is used in the purification of metals by precipitating metal oxalates, which can then be treated to recover pure metals.

Health and Safety

• Toxicity: Ammonium oxalate is considered toxic if ingested. It can cause irritation to the eyes, skin, and respiratory system.
• Handling: When handling ammonium oxalate, appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, safety goggles, and lab coats should be worn. Work should be conducted in a well-ventilated area or under a fume hood to avoid inhaling dust or vapors.
• First Aid: In case of contact with the skin or eyes, rinse immediately with plenty of water and seek medical attention if necessary. In case of ingestion or inhalation, seek medical help promptly.

Storage

• Storage Conditions: Ammonium oxalate should be stored in airtight containers in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. It should be kept away from acids, strong bases, and oxidizers, as it can react with these substances.

Conclusion

Ammonium Oxalate is a versatile compound with a wide range of applications in laboratories, chemical industries, and water treatment. It plays a key role in various chemical processes, including metal extraction, photography, and the preparation of standard solutions. Due to its toxicity, proper handling and safety precautions must be followed during its use.