These are fertilisers mandatory described in the IMSBC Code as uniform mixtures containing ammonium nitrate as main ingredient within the following composition limits: (1) not more than 70% ammonium nitrate with other inorganic materials; (2) not more than 80% ammonium nitrate mixed with calcium carbonate and/or dolomite and/or mineral calcium sulphate and not more than 0.4% total combustible organic material calculated as carbon; (3) nitrogen type ammonium nitrate-based fertilisers containing mixtures of ammonium nitrate and ammonium sulphate with not more than 45% ammonium nitrate and not more than 0.4% total combustible organic material calculated as carbon; and (4) uniform ammonium nitrate-based fertiliser mixtures of nitrogen, phosphate or potash, containing not more than 70% ammonium nitrate and not more than 0.4% total combustible organic material calculated as carbon or with not more than 45% ammonium nitrate and unrestricted combustible material. Fertilisers within these composition limits are not subject to the provisions of this schedule when shown by a trough Test (see UN Manual of Tests and Criteria , part III, sub-section 38.2; see also section 5 of Appendix 2 of the IMSBC Code) that they are liable to self-sustaining decomposition or if they contain an excess of nitrate greater than 10% by mass. Notes: (1) All nitrate ions for which there is present in the mixture a molecular equivalent of ammonium ions should be calculated as ammonium nitrate. (2) The transport of ammonium nitrate materials which are liable to self-heating sufficient to initiate decomposition is prohibited. (3) The NPK proportions for a fertiliser should not be used as a guide to its ability to undergo self-sustaining decomposition as this depends on the chemical species present (refer to UN Manual of Tests and Criteria , part III, sub-section 38.2). (4) This schedule may only be used for substances that do not exhibit explosive properties of Class 1 when tested in accordance to Test Series 1 and 2 of Class 1 (see UN Manual of Tests and criteria, part 1). (5) This schedule may only be used if the chemical or physical properties of an ammonium nitrate-based fertiliser are such that when tested it does not meet the established defining criteria of any class.
These fertilisers are non-cohesive when dry. In crystals, granules or prills form. Wholly or partly soluble in water.
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