Liquid ammonia is primarily used in the coating industry in various capacities due to its chemical properties.
Here are some of its uses:
1. **Ammonia-Based Cleaning Agents**: Ammonia is used in cleaning and degreasing surfaces before applying coatings. This ensures better adhesion of paints and coatings.
2. **Neutralizing Agent**: In the production of certain resins and coatings, liquid ammonia acts as a neutralizing agent, helping to stabilize pH levels during formulation.
3. **Catalyst in Emulsion Polymerization**: In the creation of water-based coatings, liquid ammonia is used as a catalyst in emulsion polymerization, helping in the formation of polymer-based coatings like acrylics.
4. **Reducing Agents for Metal Coatings**: In some cases, ammonia is used in metal treatments to create coatings or enhance surface properties, particularly for anti-corrosion applications.
5. **Ammonia in Pre-Treatment Processes**: Ammonia may also be used in the pre-treatment stages of coating metals, such as in ammonia-based passivation processes, to prevent oxidation before coating.
These properties make ammonia valuable in various stages of coating production and application.