Anhydrous

Common Uses

• Chemistry: Anhydrous compounds contain no water molecules in their structure

  Importance: Critical for reactions where water would interfere or cause unwanted side reactions.

  Storage: Must be kept in sealed containers with desiccants to prevent water absorption.

  Examples: Anhydrous magnesium sulfate (MgSO₄), anhydrous sodium carbonate (Na₂CO₃).

• Industry: Anhydrous materials are used when water content must be minimized

  Electronics: Prevents corrosion and short circuits in sensitive equipment.

  Manufacturing: Essential in processes where water contamination affects product quality.

  Quality Control: Strict moisture limits ensure consistent product performance.

• Laboratory: Anhydrous solvents are essential for water-sensitive reactions

  Organometallic Chemistry: Many metal compounds react violently with water.

  Preparation: Dried using molecular sieves, distillation, or chemical drying agents.

  Storage: Kept under inert atmosphere (nitrogen or argon) to prevent water uptake.

• Agriculture: Anhydrous ammonia is a nitrogen fertilizer without water

  Concentration: Contains 82% nitrogen, higher than other nitrogen fertilizers.

  Application: Injected directly into soil where it dissolves in soil moisture.

  Handling: Requires special equipment due to its corrosive and toxic properties.