Calcium Ammonium Nitrate

1.Chemical and Physical Properties

1.1 Chemical Identity

• Chemical Name: Calcium Ammonium Nitrate
• Common Abbreviations: CAN, CAN-27, CAN-26
• Chemical Composition: Mixed salt of 5Ca(NO₃)₂·NH₄NO₃·10H₂O and NH₄NO₃
• Alternative Formulation: Ca(NO₃)₂·2NH₄NO₃ (anhydrous basis)
• CAS Number: 15245-12-2
• Molecular Weight: Varies with calcium content (typically 400-500 g/mol for hydrated forms)

1.2 Physical Properties

• Appearance: White to light gray granules or prills
• Particle Size:
  • Granular: 2-4 mm (typical agricultural grade)
  • Prilled: 1-3 mm diameter
  • Powder:
  • Bulk Density: 0.9-1.1 g/cm³ (varies with particle size and moisture)
  • True Density: 1.8-2.0 g/cm³
  • Hardness: 2-4 kg/granule (crush strength)
  • Hygroscopicity: Moderately hygroscopic, less than pure ammonium nitrate
  • Critical Relative Humidity: 59.4% at 30°C
  • Melting Point: Decomposes before melting (~170°C)

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  1.3 Chemical Properties

  • Solubility in Water:
    • Highly soluble: 1500-2000 g/L at 20°C
    • Temperature dependent: increases with temperature
    • Complete dissolution within 2-3 minutes
  • pH of Solution: Nearly neutral (pH 5.5-6.5 in 10% solution)
  • Thermal Stability:
    • Stable up to 150°C under normal conditions
    • Begins decomposition at 170-180°C
    • Less explosive than pure ammonium nitrate
  • Chemical Stability:
    • Stable under normal storage conditions
    • Compatible with most other fertilizers
    • Non-corrosive to standard equipment

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  1.4 Nutrient Content and Grades

  • Standard Grades:
    • CAN-27: 27% total nitrogen, 7-8% calcium (CaO equivalent)
    • CAN-26: 26% total nitrogen, 8-9% calcium (CaO equivalent)
    • CAN-25: 25% total nitrogen, 9-10% calcium (CaO equivalent)
  • Nitrogen Forms:
    • 50% nitrate nitrogen (NO₃⁻-N) - immediately available
    • 50% ammonium nitrogen (NH₄⁺-N) - slower release
  • Calcium Content: 6-10% as Ca, 8-14% as CaO equivalent
  • Typical Analysis (CAN-27):
    • Total N: 27%
    • Nitrate N: 13.5%
    • Ammonium N: 13.5%
    • Calcium (Ca): 7.5%
    • Water: