Ammonia Developer

Chemical Name:
ammonium hydroxide, 28-30% solution

Synonyms:
aqueous ammonia
ammonia hydrate
aqua ammonia
strong ammonia water
Spirit of Hartshorn

Description:

• Colourless liquid.
• Intense, pungent odour of ammonia gas.
• Vapour irritates the eyes and causes tears.
• Developer for blueprint drawing machines.

Disposal:

1. Waste ammonia developer can be used for fertilizer. Check with local federal departments for this use. The use of waste ammonia developer as a fertilizer should be carried out by technically qualified persons familiar with the potential hazards of chemicals.
2. Some manufacturers will accept waste ammonia for recycling. Check with the manufacturer of your product.
3. Neutralize the developer with plain white vinegar (the type available at the grocery store). One part vinegar is required to neutralize four parts ammonia developer and the resulting solution can be disposed of with other municipal sewage. Check with your municipal authority to see if this is acceptable. This procedure should be carried out by technically qualified persons familiar with potential hazards of chemicals in a chemical laboratory equipped with a fume hood and proper equipment . Personal protective equipment must be worn.
4. Dispose of through a provincially licensed waste disposal company.

created July 1999