Ammonium Sulfate
Fertilizer Ammonium sulfate [(NH₄)₂ SO₄] considered as one of the first and most widely used nitrogen (N) fertilizers for crop production, and it’s considered as especially valuable where both N and sulfur (S) are required. Its high solubility provides versatility for a number of agricultural applications.
Chemical properties
Chemical formula: (NH4)₂SO₄
N content: 21%
S content: 24%
Water solubility: 750 g/L
Solution pH: 5 to 6
Agricultural use
Growers apply ammonium sulfate primarily where they need supplemental N and S to meet the nutritional requirement of growing plants. It provides an excellent source of S, which supports or drives numerous essential plant functions, including protein synthesis.
Because the N fraction is present in the ammonium form of ammonium sulfate, rice farmers frequently apply it to flooded soils, since other nitrate-based fertilizers are a poor choice due to denitrification losses.
A solution containing dissolved ammonium sulfate is often added to post-emergence herbicide sprays to improve their effectiveness at weed control.
This practice of increasing herbicide efficacy with ammonium sulfate works particularly well when the water supply contains significant concentrations of calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg) or sodium (Na). A high-purity grade of ammonium sulfate often works best for this purpose to avoid plugging spray nozzles.Because the N fraction is present in the ammonium form of ammonium sulfate, rice farmers frequently apply it to flooded soils, since other nitrate-based fertilizers are a poor choice due to denitrification losses.
A solution containing dissolved ammonium sulfate is often added to post-emergence herbicide sprays to improve their effectiveness at weed control.
Non-agricultural uses
Commonly added to bread products as a dough conditioner
Component in fire extinguisher powder and flame-proofing agents
Multiple purposes in the chemical, wood pulp, textile and pharmaceutical industries
