Does Ammonia Kill Viruses?

Ammonia, a colorless gas with a pungent smell, is often used in cleaning products and fertilizers. But does it have the ability to kill viruses? Let’s take a closer look.

What is Ammonia?

Ammonia (NH3) is a compound of nitrogen and hydrogen. It’s naturally present in the environment, in air, soil, and water, and even in humans, animals, and plants. It has a variety of uses, from agricultural to industrial, and is used in the production of various compounds, including quaternary ammonium compounds (QACs).

Ammonia and Viruses

While ammonia is a powerful cleaning agent, it’s not an effective disinfectant against viruses. It’s primarily used to remove dirt, grease, and stains, but it does not have strong antimicrobial properties. Instead, quaternary ammonium compounds, which are derived from ammonia, have been shown to be effective disinfectants against a variety of viruses.

Quats are membrane-active agents that interact with the cytoplasmic membrane of bacteria and the lipids of viruses, leading to their inactivation. They are commonly used in disinfectants and have been found to be effective against viruses such as Influenza A, HIV, Zika, and Enterovirus 71. However, the efficacy of QACs depends on the formulation and method of application.

Safe Use of Ammonia as a Disinfectant

If you choose to use ammonia as a disinfectant, there are a few safety precautions you should follow:

• Always dilute ammonia with water before using it as a disinfectant. A common dilution ratio is 1/4 cup of ammonia to 1 gallon of water.
• Wear gloves and eye protection to avoid skin irritation and burns.
• Work in a well-ventilated area to avoid respiratory irritation.
• Never mix ammonia with bleach or any product containing chlorine, which can produce toxic fumes.
• Test it on a small, inconspicuous area before using it on a large surface to avoid damage or discoloration.
• Always read and follow the instructions on the product label.

Risks and Downsides

Ammonia can be harmful if not used correctly. It can cause irritation to the eyes, nose, throat, and respiratory tract. In high concentrations, it can result in blindness, lung damage, or even death. Furthermore, when mixed with other chemicals, such as bleach, it can produce toxic gases.

Ammonia can also harm the environment. When washed down the drain, it can be toxic to aquatic life.

Comparison with Other Disinfectants

Compared to other disinfectants such as bleach, alcohol, and hydrogen peroxide, ammonia is less effective at killing a wide range of germs. These other disinfectants are more recommended for use against viruses, including SARS-CoV-2.

Expert Recommendations

Experts suggest that while ammonia can be used to create effective disinfectants like QACs, ammonia itself is not recommended for killing viruses. It’s crucial to use these products according to their instructions to ensure safety and effectiveness.

In summary, while ammonia can be a powerful cleaning agent, it’s not the most effective choice for killing viruses. Instead, other disinfectants like bleach, alcohol, and hydrogen peroxide are more recommended for this purpose. Always remember to use these products safely and according to their instructions.