Ammonium fluoroborate (NH4BF4) is an inorganic compound with a variety of uses and properties. Its physical properties include the morphology of clear crystals or needle-like colorless crystals, with a relative density of 1.85, and 100 ml of water dissolves 25g at 16 °C and 97 g at 100 °C. Its aqueous solution is weakly acidic but insoluble in alcohol. When heated above 110°C, ammonium fluoroborate will decompose, and even sublimate when it is hot.

In terms of chemical properties, the aqueous solution of ammonium fluoroborate is weakly acidic due to the weak hydrolysis of fluoroborate ions in hot water. In addition, it is a strong acid and weak alkali salt, so ammonium ions are also hydrolyzed in cold water. When heated with a strong alkali, ammonia gas is formed.

Uses of ammonium fluoroborate

1. Metal surface treatment: Ammonium fluoroborate can be used as a cleaning agent and corrosion inhibitor for metals, especially in electroplating and metal refining processes. It helps to remove oxides and dirt from metal surfaces, thereby improving the quality and performance of metal products.

2. Electroplating baths: In the electroplating industry, ammonium fluoroborate is used as a component of electroplating baths, especially in nickel, chrome, and copper plating processes. It helps to improve the uniformity and adhesion of the plating layer.

3. Catalyst: Ammonium fluoroborate is used as a catalyst or component of a catalyst in organic synthesis to facilitate chemical reactions, especially in alkylation, esterification, and polymerization reactions.

4. Rust inhibitor: Ammonium fluoroborate can be used as a rust inhibitor during metal processing and storage to prevent rust of metal products.

5. Ceramic materials: In the ceramic industry, ammonium fluoroborate can be used to prepare special types of ceramics and glass, increasing their heat resistance and mechanical strength.

6. Insecticides and disinfectants: While this is not its primary use, ammonium fluoroborate is also used as an ingredient in some pesticides and disinfectants.

7. Additives for lubricating oils: Ammonium fluoroborate can also be used as additives for lubricating oils and greases to improve their thermal stability and oxidation resistance.

8. Pharmaceutical intermediates: In the pharmaceutical industry, ammonium fluoroborate is used as an intermediate in the synthesis of certain drugs.