Examination of thermal stability of waste rockwool and ammonium nitrate mixtures

Results of research carried out on a waste rockwool and ammonium nitrate mixtures to examine the possibility of using them in fertilization of plants were presented. Reactions occurring between compounds were analyzed to determine the possibility of an uncontrolled exothermic decomposition of nitrogen fertilizer additive. Results obtained from the analysis of prepared mixtures in various proportions and separate samples of individual compounds were compared. Ammonium nitrate used in the research was supplied by one of the domestic fertilizers producer and waste rockwool was collected after a completed crop cycle of a tomato plant. Each sample was dried and ground before examination. Analysis was carried out using differential thermal analysis coupled with thermogravimetry and mass spectrometry (DTA-TG-MS). Obtained results indicate a possibility of use of rockwool mixed with ammonium nitrate in agriculture. However, it is important to choose optimal proportions of compounds to ensure the thermal stability of the mixture.