Chlorine azide

Chlorine azide
Other names Chlorine nitride; Nitrogen chloride
Identifiers
PubChem	61708
Jmol-3D images	Image 1
SMILES [N-]=[N+]=NCl
Properties
Molecular formula	ClN3
Molar mass	77.4731
Appearance	yellow orange liquid
Melting point	freezes at -100C
Boiling point	approx -15C
Solubility	soluble in butane, pentane, benzene, methanol, ethanol, diethyl ether, acetone, chloroform, carbon tetrachloride, and carbon disulfide; slightly soluble in water
Explosive data
Shock sensitivity	High
Friction sensitivity	High
Hazards
Main hazards	Harmful, Explosive
Related compounds
Related compounds	Hydrazoic acid
Y (verify) (what is: Y/N?) Except where noted otherwise, data are given for materials in their standard state (at 25 °C, 100 kPa)
Infobox references

Chlorine azide (ClN₃) is an inorganic compound. It was discovered by Friedrich Raschig in 1908.^[1] More so than other azides, ClN₃ is highly explosive. In undiluted condition, it usually detonates violently whatever the temperature, without apparent provocation.^[2]

Preparation and handling

Chlorine azide is prepared by passing chlorine gas over silver azide or by an addition of acetic acid to a solution of sodium hypochlorite and sodium azide.^[3]

When treated with ammonia it is conceivable that one or more of the three possible azinamines, NH₂N₃, NH(N₃)₂, and N(N₃)₃ may be formed.

Explosive characteristics

Chlorine azide is highly sensitive. It will explode without provocation and is too sensitive to be used commercially. Explosive reaction with 1,3-butadiene, ethane, ethylene, methane, propane, phosphorus, silver azide, sodium. Reacts with water or steam to produce toxic and corrosive fumes of hydrochloric acid.^[4]

Regulatory information

US Department of Transportation forbids shipment.

References

1. ^ Frierson, Joe; Browne, A. W.; Chlorine Azide. II. Interaction of Chlorine Azide and Silver Azide. Azino Silver Chloride, N₃AgCl JACS, 1943, 65 (9), pp1698–1700 DOI: 10.1021/ja01249a013 Publication Date: September 1943
2. ^ Frierson, W. Joe; Kronrad, J.; Browne, A. W.; Chlorine Azide, ClN₃, JACS., 1943, 65 (9), pp 1696–1698 DOI: 10.1021/ja01249a012 Publication Date: September 1943
3. ^ Raschig, F. (1908). "Über Chlorazid N3 Cl". Berichte der deutschen chemischen Gesellschaft 41 (3): 4194–4195. doi:10.1002/cber.190804103130. 
4. ^ Pubchem