CuAz

CuAz is a shorthand designation used in chemical literature to denote copper-azide compounds, a class of materials in which copper ions are coordinated by the azide ligand (N3−). The designation does not refer to a single fixed compound but to diverse species including copper(I) azide (CuN3) and copper(II) azide (Cu(N3)2), as well as polymeric and framework structures where azide ligands bridge copper centers. The azide ligand is linear and can act as a bridging or terminal ligand, enabling a range of structural motifs from discrete clusters to extended networks.

In copper-azide chemistry, CuN3 and related species are typically studied under controlled laboratory conditions from copper salts and azide sources. Many copper-azide compounds are energetic and sensitive to mechanical impact and heat. Copper(II) azide, for example, tends to be high-energy and can be unstable, while copper(I) azide is also noted for sensitivity. Consequently, handling and study of CuAz materials require specialized facilities, appropriate safety protocols, and regulatory compliance.

Applications for copper-azide materials have been mainly in basic coordination chemistry and materials science, where azide-bridged networks can serve as precursors to nitrogen-rich materials, catalysts, or porous frameworks. However, practical use is limited by safety concerns and stability considerations.

References can be found in chemical databases and primary literature on azide coordination chemistry and metal–azide frameworks.