Chlorine azide explained

Chlorine azide is an inorganic compound that was discovered in 1908 by Friedrich Raschig.^[1] Concentrated is notoriously unstable and may spontaneously detonate at any temperature.^[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]

Explosive characteristics

Chlorine azide is extremely sensitive. It may explode, sometimes even without apparent provocation; it is thus too sensitive to be used commercially unless first diluted in solution. Chlorine azide reacts explosively with 1,3-butadiene, ethane, ethene, methane, propane, phosphorus, silver azide, and sodium. On contact with acid, chlorine azide decomposes, evolving toxic and corrosive hydrogen chloride gas.

Regulatory information

Its shipment is subject to strict reporting requirements and regulations by the US Department of Transportation.

Notes and References

1. Frierson, W. J. . Browne, A. W. . Chlorine Azide. II. Interaction of Chlorine Azide and Silver Azide. Azino Silver Chloride, N₃AgCl . . 1943 . 65 . 9 . 1698–1700 . 10.1021/ja01249a013 .
2. Frierson, W. J. . Kronrad, J. . Browne, A. W. . Chlorine Azide, ClN₃. I. . . 1943 . 65 . 9 . 1696–1698 . 10.1021/ja01249a012 .
3. Raschig . F. . Über Chlorazid N₃Cl . Berichte der Deutschen Chemischen Gesellschaft . 1908 . 41 . 3 . 4194–4195 . 10.1002/cber.190804103130 .