Key data
| Stowage factor | 0.90–1.10 m³/t (typical 0.95)31.8–38.8 ft³/t (typical 33.5) |
|---|---|
| Form | Bulk |
| IMSBC group | B Cargoes that carry a chemical hazard in carriage. |
| Angle of repose | ~30 |
| BCSN | AMMONIUM NITRATE |
ft³/t values are per metric tonne (1 m³/t ≈ 35.31 ft³/t). Stowage factors are indicative — see note below.
Description
Ammonium nitrate is a high-nitrogen fertiliser and a regulated dangerous good. At around 0.95 m3/t it is a deadweight cargo, but density is the least of its concerns. It is a strong oxidiser that supports and intensifies fire and, under the wrong conditions, can detonate – so it is carried under strict controls.
Stowage & loading
Carriage follows the dangerous-goods regime for the grade, with documentation, segregation and the master's agreement in place before loading. Holds are scrupulously clean and free of combustible residue, fuel and contaminants, and the cargo is kept away from heat and ignition sources throughout.
Hazards & handling
As an oxidiser, ammonium nitrate dramatically intensifies any fire and supplies its own oxygen, so combustible material, fuels and contamination are rigorously excluded. Under strong confinement combined with heat or contamination it can detonate. It is also hygroscopic and cakes if damp.
Carriage & discharge
The cargo is kept cool, dry and uncontaminated, segregated from combustibles and fuel, with temperatures and any sign of contamination watched and ignition sources excluded. Discharge is by grab into clean equipment, after which holds are cleaned of all residue to protect later cargoes.
Key hazards
- Strong oxidiser that intensifies fire and supplies oxygen
- Detonation risk under heat, strong confinement or contamination
- Hygroscopic caking if damp
Loading precautions
- Carry under the dangerous-goods regime with segregation and documentation
- Present scrupulously clean holds free of combustibles, fuel and contaminants
- Exclude heat and ignition sources and keep the cargo cool and dry
Stowage factors are indicative and vary with grade, origin, moisture and packing. Always verify against the shipper's cargo declaration and the applicable IMSBC Code schedule before fixing or loading. This is general information, not professional or safety advice.