AMMONIUM PERCHLORATE

A white, crystalline solid or powder. Classified as a division 1.1 explosive if powdered into particles smaller than 15 microns in diameter or if powdered into larger particles but thoroughly dried. Does not readily burn, but will burn if contaminated by combustible material. May explode under prolonged exposure to heat or fire. Used to make rocket propellants, explosives, pyrotechnics, as an etching and engraving agent, and in analytical chemistry.

• Explosive
• Strong Oxidizing Agent

Water soluble.

Special Hazards of Combustion Products: Toxic gases are produced in a fire.

Behavior in Fire: May explode when involved in fire or exposed to shock or friction. (USCG, 1999)

Irritating to skin and mucous membranes. (USCG, 1999)

AMMONIUM PERCHLORATE is a strong oxidizing agent. Decomposes at 130°C and explodes at 380°C [Mellor 2 Supp. 1:608 1956]. Explosions have occurred in propellant formulations containing ammonium perchlorate to which ferrocene has been added as a burning rate catalyst. Although the cause was not been definitely established, it was most probably frictional heating from dragging a spatula through the mixture [ASESB Expl. Report 211 1966]. Can explode when mixed with sugar, charcoal or on contact with hot copper pipes. Becomes impact-sensitive when contaminated by powdered carbon, ferrocene, sulfur, or other reducing materials such as organic matter or powdered metals.

• Inorganic Oxidizing Agents

Flood with water. Cool all affected containers with flooding quantities of water. Apply water from as far a distance as possible. (AAR, 2003)

Keep sparks, flames, and other sources of ignition away. Keep spilled material wet. Wet spilled material before picking it up. Do not attempt to sweep up dry material. Keep material out of water sources and sewers. (AAR, 2003)

Wear appropriate chemical protective gloves, boots and goggles. Do not handle broken packages unless wearing appropriate personal protective equipment. Wash away any material which may have contacted the body with copious amounts of water or soap and water. Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus when fighting fires involving this material. Approach fire with caution. (AAR, 2003)

Move victim to fresh air. Call 911 or emergency medical service. Give artificial respiration if victim is not breathing. Administer oxygen if breathing is difficult. Remove and isolate contaminated clothing and shoes. Contaminated clothing may be a fire risk when dry. In case of contact with substance, immediately flush skin or eyes with running water for at least 20 minutes. Keep victim warm and quiet. Ensure that medical personnel are aware of the material(s) involved and take precautions to protect themselves. (ERG, 2008)

• AMMONIUM PERCHLORATE (NH4CLO4)
• AMMONIUM PERCHLORATE, [HIGH EXPLOSIVE]
• AMMONIUM PERCHLORATE, [OXIDIZER]
• ARCADENE 426
• ARCITE 155
• ARCITE 322
• NK 270
• PERCHLORATE D'AMMONIUM (DOT FRENCH)
• PERCLORATO DE AMONIO (DOT SPANISH)
• PKHA