The catastrophic explosion in Beirut was one of the worst accidents caused by ammonium nitrate in history. Since the explosion, there has been a dramatic increase in interest concerning the safety aspects of ammonium nitrate. Herein, we summarize the history of accidents involving ammonium nitrate around the world, most of which happened during storage or transportation, showing a general lack of awareness of safe handling and storage of AN. We then review our recent analyses of patents from the CAS content collection related to safer AN formulations, strategies for preventing accidents and misuse, and reducing environmental and health consequences following ammonium nitrate explosions. Regulations and safety rules in various countries and international agencies will be highlighted, as well as a list of other explosive substances registered in the CAS substance collection. CAS initiated this work to raise awareness of AN safety and help inform those who work with or handle this chemical so that they can implement safety rules to prevent future accidents.

Ammonium nitrate explosions: Lessons learned

ACS Spring Meeting 2021

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