Ammonium acetate (NH₄C₂H₃O₂) is a commonly used chemical in laboratories, primarily for buffering solutions, in organic synthesis, and in some analytical chemistry procedures.

Ammonium Acetate Lab grade for research and analysis

CAS #: 631-61-8, Molar Mass: 77.08 g/mol, Grade: ACS, Reag. Ph Eur, Chemical Formula: CHCOONH, Hill Formula: CHNO, EC Number: 211-162-9. Specifications of Ammonium Acetate : Assay (acidimetric) 98.0 % Insoluble matter 0.005 % pH-value (5 %; water, 25 C) 6.7 – 7.3 Chloride (Cl) 0.0005 % Nitrate (NO) 0.001 % Sulfate (SO) 0.001 % Heavy metals (as Pb) 0.0002 % Ca (Calcium) 0.001 % Fe (Iron) 0.0002 % Substances reducing potassium permanganate (as formic acid) 0.005 % Residue on ignition (as sulfate) 0.01 % Water 2.0 % Corresponds to ACS

Applications of Ammonium Acetate:

1. Buffer Solutions: Ammonium acetate is widely used in buffering systems, particularly for adjusting the pH in biochemistry and analytical chemistry experiments. It’s often used as a buffer for ion chromatography and in some HPLC (High-Performance Liquid Chromatography) procedures.
2. Precipitation Reactions: It can be used in the precipitation of metal ions and for controlling the solubility of certain compounds.
3. Organic Synthesis: In some organic reactions, ammonium acetate is used to form ammonium salts, which can be intermediates in reactions such as acylation or amination.
4. Acid-Base Titrations: It can act as a weak acid to titrate bases.
5. Food and Pharmaceuticals: Although not commonly used in food, it has some applications in the pharmaceutical industry for adjusting pH and in the production of certain pharmaceuticals.
6. Agriculture: Sometimes used as a fertilizer or soil additive due to its nitrogen content, though it is more common as a laboratory reagent.

Safety and Handling:

• Hygroscopic: Ammonium acetate is hygroscopic, meaning it will absorb moisture from the air, so it should be stored in tightly sealed containers.
• Irritation: While generally considered low in toxicity, ammonium acetate can irritate the skin, eyes, and respiratory system. Always handle with care and use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, goggles, and lab coats.
• Storage: Store in a cool, dry place, away from moisture, incompatible substances, and strong acids or bases.