C5H3N3O4

C5H3N3O4 is the chemical formula for nitroguanidine. It is an organic compound that belongs to the guanidine family, characterized by a central carbon atom double-bonded to one nitrogen atom and single-bonded to two other nitrogen atoms. In nitroguanidine, one of the nitrogen atoms in the guanidine structure is substituted with a nitro group (-NO2).

Nitroguanidine is a white, crystalline solid that is sparingly soluble in water. It is known for its energetic properties, making it useful as an ingredient in explosives and propellants. It is often used in smokeless powders for firearms and in rocket propellants due to its high nitrogen content and relatively low sensitivity compared to other explosives.

The synthesis of nitroguanidine typically involves the nitration of guanidine or its salts. It can also be produced through reactions involving dicyandiamide. Due to its energetic nature, its production and handling require careful safety protocols.

In addition to its energetic applications, nitroguanidine has also been explored for its potential in medicinal chemistry, particularly for its ability to release nitric oxide, a signaling molecule involved in various physiological processes. However, its primary industrial use remains in the field of energetic materials.