Ammonia; anhydrous

HS code 281410 covers the trade of anhydrous ammonia, a critical industrial chemical with a wide range of applications. Ammonia is a colorless gas with a pungent odor, and it is one of the most widely produced inorganic chemicals globally. It plays a vital role in the production of fertilizers, which are essential for sustaining global food production, as well as in various other industries such as refrigeration, pharmaceuticals, and cleaning products.

Anhydrous ammonia is primarily produced through the Haber process, a chemical synthesis reaction that combines nitrogen and hydrogen gases under high temperature and pressure conditions. The process involves several key steps, including air separation to extract nitrogen, hydrogen production, and the final catalytic synthesis of ammonia. Careful control of temperature, pressure, and catalyst selection is crucial to optimize the efficiency and yield of the Haber process.

The main inputs required for the production of anhydrous ammonia include natural gas or other hydrocarbon feedstocks as a source of hydrogen, as well as air or other nitrogen sources. Specialized equipment such as air separation units, high-pressure reactors, and catalysts are also essential for the Haber process. Additionally, significant amounts of energy, typically in the form of heat and electricity, are required to power the various stages of ammonia production.

The primary output of HS code 281410 is anhydrous ammonia, which is then used as a feedstock for the production of a wide range of other chemicals and products. Some of the main consumers of anhydrous ammonia include the 310210 Nitrogenous fertilizers industry, which uses it to manufacture 310221 Ammonium sulfate, 310230 Ammonium nitrate, and other nitrogen-based fertilizers. Anhydrous ammonia is also used in the production of 281511 (Sodium hydroxide (caustic soda)), 281512 (Potassium hydroxide (caustic potash)), and various other industrial chemicals.