Ag3N

Ag3N, commonly referred to as silver nitride, is an inorganic compound composed of silver and nitrogen with the formula Ag3N. It is a metastable nitride of silver that is highly sensitive to heat, shock, and friction, and it readily decomposes to metallic silver and nitrogen gas.

Properties and structure: Ag3N appears as a white to pale gray crystalline solid. It is insoluble in water and most common solvents. The compound is metastable and decomposes exothermically when initiated, releasing nitrogen gas and leaving behind metallic silver. Because of its instability, it has no practical bulk applications and is primarily of interest for studies of nitride chemistry and explosive materials.

Synthesis and occurrence: In laboratory settings, Ag3N can be produced only in tiny, carefully controlled quantities and is typically transient, breaking down to silver and nitrogen before it can be collected as a stable material. It is not formed or stored as a practical bulk substance and is usually encountered as a short-lived intermediate or as a nanoscale or thin-film phase under specialized conditions.

Safety and handling: Ag3N is regarded as highly sensitive and potentially explosive. It can detonate or deflagrate in response to mechanical impact, friction, or localized heating. Handling requires stringent safety measures, appropriate protective equipment, and procedures designed for highly energetic materials, typically in specialized facilities.

See also: Silver azide, Silver oxide.