Ammonium hydroxide

Harm score: 4 (Slightly harmful chemistry)

Ammonium hydroxide is also known by the names PEG-5 Tridecyl Ether, Polyethylene Glycol (5) Tridecyl Ether or Polyoxyethylene (5) Tridecyl Ether. This substance is an inorganic chemical compound composed of nitrogen and hydrogen. It is produced by reacting ammonia with oxygen in the air to produce ammonium hydroxide. It is a colourless liquid with a strong odour, which is typical of ammonia.

It is a very versatile chemical ingredient that is mainly used in industry. It is a component of many products such as cleaning and disinfecting products, cosmetics, or hair dyes. It is also used in the food industry for acidity control and as a gluten in bakery products. However, it must be used with caution as it can cause irritation if the vapours are inhaled or come into direct contact with the skin. Despite this, it has an irreplaceable place in industry due to its specific properties.