Stability and Reactivity

Ammonia is stable but very reactive.

• Stable to heat and light.
• Reacts violently and explosively with oxidizing gases such as chlorine, bromine, and other halogens.
• Reacts explosively with hypochlorites such as bleach.
• Reacts vigorously with acids.
• Highly reactive with reducing agents.
• Forms explosive compounds with silver and mercury.
• Hazardous polymerization will not occur. Polymerization is the formation of long organic or inorganic chemical chains.
• Ammonia is a nonflammable gas, but it will ignite within vapor concentration limits of 15% and 28% at a temperature of 1204°F. Complete combustion forms oxides of nitrogen and water vapor.
• Corrosive to copper, zinc, tin, brass, and galvanized steel surfaces.
• Not corrosive to mild steel, glass, or stainless steel (304 or 316).
• Dissolves in water with the evolution of heat to form ammonium hydroxide. Action upon contact is vigorous.