Method for degassing and removing gelled ammonium nitrate residues from silos

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method for degassing and removing gelled ammonium nitrate (NH4NO3) residues adhering to internal metal surfaces of industrial silos (1). The method comprises the sequential application of a surfactant solution (3), dry steam (4) to induce liquefaction (FIG. 1), active vapor evacuation (5), removal of the liquefied residue (6), application of a chemical de-adhering agent (9) to weaken residual adhesion (FIG. 4), removal by pressurized water (11), and a final low-pressure venturi-type wash (12). The process improves cleaning efficiency, prevents residue redistribution, and reduces exposure to toxic and hazardous gases.