What Is Ammonia Used For? Lawrence Haynes | 3 minutes | July 23, 2025 Ammonia has numerous applications, from agricultural fertilizers to refrigeration systems. It also plays crucial roles in manufacturing, food production, and water treatment processes. This guide explores ammonia’s many use cases on a more granular level to show you exactly how this compound is used across industries. We’ll then go over the key safety considerations regarding ammonia and its environmental impact. WestAir supplies ammonia across California and Arizona. Agricultural Applications and Food Production Agriculture accounts for the largest use of ammonia, consuming approximately 80% of global production. Farmers use ammonia-based fertilizers to provide essential nitrogen to crops, significantly boosting agricultural yields and food production capacity. Ammonia’s widespread use and effectiveness in agriculture stems from its high nitrogen content, which plants require for growth and development. When applied to soil, ammonia-based fertilizers break down into forms that crops can readily absorb, promoting healthier and more abundant harvests. Industrial Refrigeration and Cooling Systems Ammonia is a highly efficient refrigerant commonly used in industrial cooling systems. Its superior thermodynamic properties make it particularly valuable for large-scale refrigeration applications in facilities like: Food processing plants Ice rinks Cold storage facilities The key benefits of ammonia as a refrigerant include its high energy efficiency and low environmental impact. Unlike synthetic refrigerants, ammonia has zero ozone depletion potential and no direct global warming effect. Manufacturing and Chemical Production Ammonia is crucial for the production of various materials and chemicals. It’s a primary ingredient in the creation of: Plastics Textiles Pharmaceuticals The compound’s role in manufacturing also extends to metal treatment processes. In steel production, ammonia is essential for creating controlled atmospheres necessary in heat treatment operations, such as nitriding and carbonitriding processes that enhance metal durability. Finally, water treatment facilities utilize ammonia to maintain proper pH levels and create chloramines for disinfection. This application helps ensure safe drinking water for communities while controlling bacterial growth in water distribution systems. Safety and Handling Considerations While ammonia is useful for numerous processes, it requires proper handling and safety protocols. Its corrosive nature and strong odor call for specialized storage and handling procedures to ensure and maintain workplace safety. Industrial users must implement robust safety measures, including: Proper ventilation systems Emergency response protocols Regular maintenance of ammonia-based systems Ammonia’s distinct odor serves as a natural warning system, allowing for quick detection of leaks. This characteristic makes it safer to use than various odorless alternatives. Environmental Impact and Sustainability Modern ammonia production focuses on sustainable practices and reduced environmental impact. New technologies are emerging to produce so-called “green ammonia” using renewable energy instead of traditional fossil fuel-based methods. The development of more eco-friendly production methods is a major step toward reducing the carbon footprint of industrial ammonia use. This evolution aligns with global efforts to create more sustainable industrial processes. Industry leaders continue to explore innovative applications for ammonia, including its potential role in clean energy storage and as a carbon-free fuel alternative. These developments may expand ammonia’s importance in future industrial applications. Understanding ammonia’s diverse applications helps industries leverage it fully while maintaining safety and environmental responsibility. New uses for this versatile compound continue to emerge as technology advances, which reinforces its importance in modern industries. Lawrence HaynesCurrently serving as Marketing Director at WestAir Gases & Equipment in San Diego, CA Lawrence leverages his expertise in industrial gas solutions and equipment marketing. With a proven track record in cross-industry marketing strategy, he brings a specialized experience in content development, marketing automation, and partner relations to the industrial gas sector. Latest Posts ... What Is a Pyrophoric Gas? Tyler O'Brien | 6 minutes | 09/24/2025 How to Store Dry Ice Tyler O'Brien | 6 minutes | 09/15/2025 Working in Confined Spaces: Managing Atmospheric Hazards Tyler O'Brien | 11 minutes | 09/15/2025 Can You Weld with Nitrogen? Lawrence Haynes | 5 minutes | 09/15/2025 How to Store Propane Tanks Lawrence Haynes | 5 minutes | 09/15/2025 Recommended Posts ... Tyler O'Brien | 6 minutes | 09/24/2025 What Is a Pyrophoric Gas? 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