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Texas Explosion: How Ammonia Affects The Body

The explosion at a fertilizer plant in West, Texas, occurred as a small fire spread to tanks containing chemicals, including ammonia anhydrous, used to treat the fertilizer. The blast killed as many as 15 people, injured many more and led to the evacuation of half the town due to fears of toxic fumes.

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707 views1 page

Texas Explosion: How Ammonia Affects The Body

The explosion at a fertilizer plant in West, Texas, occurred as a small fire spread to tanks containing chemicals, including ammonia anhydrous, used to treat the fertilizer. The blast killed as many as 15 people, injured many more and led to the evacuation of half the town due to fears of toxic fumes.

Uploaded by

The State Newspaper
Copyright
© Attribution Non-Commercial (BY-NC)
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

How ammonia can affect the body

Possible effects of inhaling, ingesting or contacting


Eyes, nasal passages Irritation, burning; higher doses can cause corneal burns or blindness Mouth, larynx (voice box), throat, esophagus Swelling, burns; coughing, choking or death from swollen throat Lungs Burns Skin Irritation, swelling, stinging; blistering, inflammation, deep burns, especially on moist areas, tissue death Stomach Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain; burns
Source: U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; North Dakota Department of Public Health Graphic: Pat Carr

The explosion at a fertilizer plant in West, Texas, occurred as a small fire spread to tanks containing chemicals, including ammonia anhydrous, used to treat the fertilizer. The blast killed as many as 15 people, injured many more and led to the evacuation of half the town due to fears of toxic fumes.

About ammonia anhydrous


Anhydrous (dry or waterless) ammonia is a colorless, flammable, toxic gas

Tips for returning evacuees


Throw away any food, including pet food, not in sealed containers (cans, airtight plastic wrap) Wash all plates, eating utensils Clean up any residual white powder with a wet cloth; wear rubber gloves
2013 MCT

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