Does aluminum foil react with ammonia?

Answer 1

Yes, aluminum reacts with ammonia to produce aluminum hydroxide and hydrogen gas. While most aluminum quickly acquires a coating of aluminum oxide, protecting it from corrosion, aqueous ammonia is able to get past this protective oxide layer and corrode the aluminum.

Here is the chemical equation:

Al3+ (aq) + 3NH3 (aq) + 3H2O(aq) --> Al(OH)3 (s) + 3NH4+ (aq)

...and, you also have this reaction resulting in the production of some hydrogen gas:

2NH4+(aq) --> 2NH3 + H2 (g)

Answer 2

Aluminum foil does not react with ammonia under normal conditions. However, prolonged exposure to ammonia vapors may cause some discoloration or corrosion on the foil surface over time. It is advisable to avoid prolonged contact between aluminum foil and ammonia to prevent any potential reactions.