AgN3

AgN3, commonly referred to as silver azide, is an inorganic metal azide salt. It consists of silver(I) cations and azide anions (N3-). The compound forms a white, crystalline solid that is extremely sensitive to heat, friction, and impact. It is insoluble in water and can decompose explosively when initiated, yielding nitrogen gas and metallic silver.

Structure and preparation: In the solid, Ag+ ions are paired with azide ions in a lattice. It can be generated by a metathesis reaction between a soluble silver salt and an azide source, giving AgN3 as a precipitate. Because of its sensitivity, handling is restricted and the solid is typically washed and maintained under conditions that minimize shock and heat exposure; dry storage is avoided.

Decomposition and safety: Upon initiation, AgN3 decomposes rapidly to metallic silver and nitrogen gas: 2 AgN3 → 2 Ag + 3 N2. The process is highly exothermic and can act as a detonant. Uses: silver azide has historically been employed as a primary explosive in detonators and primers, though its extreme sensitivity and toxicity have limited its modern use, with safer alternatives preferred.