Ammonium perchlorate is a chemical compound with the formula NH₄ClO₄. It is the salt of ammonia and perchloric acid. Like other perchlorates, it is a powerful oxidizer.

This salt generates toxic gas and extremely high temperature elevation following its decomposition.

It is produced by reaction between ammonia and perchloric acid, or by double decomposition between an ammonium salt and sodium perchlorate.

It crystallises in colorless rhombohedra with a relative density of 1.95. It is the least soluble of all ammonium salts with 20 g in 100 g water at 0 °C, due to the large size of the anion. Like all ammonium salts, it decomposes before fusion. Mild heating results in chlorine, nitrogen, oxygen and water, while strong heating may lead to explosions.

It is an important oxidizer used in solid rocket propellants, such as the Space Shuttle Solid Rocket Boosters, as well as many other solid rockets including some fireworks, amateur and hobby high power rockets, and larger rockets used for space launch and military purposes.

The PEPCON disaster happened at an ammonium perchlorate manufacturing plant. The resulting explosions measured 3.5 on the Richter scale.

Ammonium compounds | Perchlorates | Pyrotechnic chemicals | Rocket fuels

Ammoniumperchlorat | Perclorato de amonio | 過塩素酸アンモニウム | Перхлорат аммония | Ammoniumperkloraatti