Is ammonium nitrate explosive on its own?

Ammonium nitrate is not, on its own, an explosive, but it readily forms explosive mixtures with varying properties when combined with explosives such as TNT or with fuels like aluminum powder or fuel oil.

Can ammonium nitrate explode without a catalyst?

If there is sufficient quantity of ammonium nitrate, it can generate enough heat to catch fire and keep the fire going, without the need for an external catalyst such as a flame.

When ammonium nitrate breaks down explosively?

when ammonium nitrate breaks down explosively, it forms nitrogen gas, oxygen gas, and water. when 40 grams of ammonium nitrate explode, 14 grams of nitrogen and 8 grams of oxygen are formed.

Can ammonium nitrate explode without diesel?

The chemical compound is a white salt and an oxidizer — it fuels fires by supplying oxygen. Without a detonator, pure ammonium nitrate does not explode, which is why it is considered safe to use as an agricultural fertilizer.

Is ammonium nitrate a tertiary explosive?

In prill form, the explosive is not usually detonable and requires a booster charge for efficient detonation and complete reaction. It acts as a tertiary explosive.

Can ammonium nitrate explode when heated?

Ammonium nitrate by itself does not burn, but in contact with other combustible materials, it increases the fire hazard. A fire involving ammonium nitrate in an enclosed space could lead to an explosion. Closed containers may rupture violently when heated.

Is ammonium nitrate a secondary explosive?

In most jurisdictions, ammonium nitrate need not be classified as an explosive for transport purposes; it is merely an oxidizer. ANFO under most conditions is detonator–insensitive, so it is classified as a blasting agent and not a high explosive.

Can fire cause ammonium nitrate to explode?

FM Global reports that there have been a number of fire incidents involving quantities of ammonium nitrate exceeding 50 tons, which only burned and did not result in an explosion. Data suggests that detonations are promoted by severe shock or by heating with confinement.