Page 122 - Encyclopedia of Chemical Compounds 3 Vols

AMMONIUM HYDROXIDE

Words to Know

AQUEOUS SOLUTION A solution that PUNGENT Intensely sharp or biting.
consists of some material dissolved
in water.

cause irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat that, for weak
solutions, is generally unpleasant but not dangerous. Expo-
sure to higher concentrations of ammonia released from
ammonium hydroxide may result in more serious health
problems, such as severe burning of the eyes, nose, and throat
and permanent damage to these parts of the body, including
blindness, lung disease, and death. One of the most danger-
ous hazards posed by ammonium hydroxide occurs when it is
mixed with substances containing chlorine, such as bleach-
ing products. That combination may result in large amounts
of heat and toxic gases that can cause serious injuries and
even death.

FOR FUR THER INFO RMAT ION
‘‘Ammonia: Public Health Statement.’’ Agency for Toxic Substances
and Disease Registry.
http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxprofiles/tp126 c1.pdf (accessed on
September 19, 2005).
‘‘Ammonium Hydroxide.’’ Industrial Resources Group, Ltd.
http://www.indresgroup.com/aqua.htm (accessed on September
19, 2005).
‘‘Ammonium Hydroxide.’’ Medline Plus Medical Encyclopedia.
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/
002491.htm (accessed on September 19, 2005).

See Also Ammonia

CHEMICAL COMPOUNDS 71