What is Ammonium Dichromate? Is Ammonium Dichromate dangerous? Can Ammonium Dichromate be used in educational demonstrations? Where can I find Ammonium Dichromate near me

(NH₄)₂Cr₂O₇ 

Ammonium dichromate is an inorganic chemical compound. It appears as an orange-red crystalline solid and is highly soluble in water. The compound is known for its strong oxidizing properties.

Properties of Ammonium Dichromate

• Appearance: Orange-red crystals
• Solubility: Soluble in water
• Oxidizing Ability: Highly oxidizing when heated, decomposing into chromium(III) oxide, nitrogen gas, and water vapor.

Uses of Ammonium Dichromate

1. Educational Demonstrations:

   • Popularly used in the "Vulcan's Fire" demonstration, where heating the compound leads to a fiery, self-sustained decomposition that showcases the concept of exothermic reactions.

2. Photography:

   • Historically used in certain photographic and lithographic processes. It was part of early photographic techniques involving silver-based emulsions that were sensitized using dichromates.

3. Pyrotechnics:

   • Employed in pyrotechnic compositions, owing to its ability to produce vivid orange colors and its role as an oxidizer.

4. Mordant in Dyeing and Printing:

   • Used as a mordant in dyeing fabrics and in the printing industry, helping dyes bond more effectively to the fabric.

5. Manufacturing of Other Chemicals:

   • Involved in the production of other chromium compounds, particularly in synthetic chemistry and catalysis.

Safety and Environmental Concerns

Ammonium dichromate is classified as a carcinogen and an environmental hazard. It poses significant health risks, including respiratory issues, skin irritation, and cancer risk upon prolonged exposure. Handling requires stringent safety precautions, including protective gear and proper ventilation. Due to its toxic and environmentally damaging nature, its use has been restricted in many applications and is subject to stringent regulations.

The compound's use has declined due to these health and environmental concerns, but it remains a subject of study and controlled use in specific areas due to its distinctive properties.

Molecular Weight: 252.07 g/mol
Form: Orange-red monoclinic crystals
CAS Number: 7789-09-5
EC Number: 232-143-1
Density: 2.115 g/cm³
Synonyms: AMMONIUM DICHROMATE, Ammonium dichromate(VI), Ammonium dichromate-crystal, Diammonium dichromate, Ammonium dichromate (VI), Ammoniumbichromaat [Dutch], Ammoniumdichromat [German], Bichromate d'ammonium [French], Dichromic acid, diammonium salt, Ammonio (dicromato di) [Italian]