Ammonium benzoate

Chemical properties

Ammonium benzoate NH4C7H5O2,white crystalline powder,soluble, formed by reaction of NH4OH and benzoic acid. Used (1) as a food preservative, (2) in medicine.

The Uses of Ammonium benzoate

Ammonium benzoate is used predominantly in industries which acts as a corrosion inhibitors and anti-scaling agents . It is also used as paint additives and coating additives. Other consumer uses include cleaning and furnishing Care products, paints and coatings, personal care products, water treatment products. Ammonium benzoate is also used as chemical analysis reagents, in electronics industry, used for the production of electrolytic capacitors and also used in pharmaceutical industries. Used as adhesives, metal rust treatment and rubber additives.

The Uses of Ammonium benzoate

To preserve glue and latex.

General Description

A white crystalline solid. Soluble in water. The primary hazard is the threat to the environment. Immediate steps should be taken to limit spread to the environment. Used in medicine and as a food preservative.

Air & Water Reactions

Water soluble.

Reactivity Profile

Avoid strong mineral acids and strong alkalis. Special Hazards of Combustion Products: Irritating and toxic ammonia gas and other nitrogen compounds or oxides of carbon may form in fires [USCG, 1999].

Health Hazard

Inhalation of dust may irritate nose. Contact with eyes causes irritation. Ingestion leads to nausea and vomiting.

Fire Hazard

Special Hazards of Combustion Products: Irritating and toxic ammonia gas and other nitrogen compounds or oxides of carbon may form in fires.

Flammability and Explosibility

Not classified

Safety Profile

Poison by ingestion andintravenous routes. When heated to decomposition itemits toxic vapors of NOx and NH3.

Purification Methods

Crystallise it from EtOH. [Beilstein 9 IV 273.]