NaD

NaD is the chemical formula for sodium deuteride, the deuterated analogue of sodium hydride in which the hydride ion is replaced by deuteride (D−). Deuterium is a stable isotope of hydrogen, consisting of one proton and one neutron, so NaD is chemically similar to NaH but exhibits isotope effects in spectroscopy and vibrational properties. It is an ionic solid composed of Na+ and D− and is typically isostructural with NaH, adopting a rock-salt (NaCl-type) lattice.

Preparation and handling of NaD generally follow routes used for NaH. It can be prepared by direct reaction of sodium metal with deuterium gas (2 Na + D2 → 2 NaD) or by isotopic exchange from sodium hydride using deuterium sources at elevated temperature. NaD is highly reactive and moisture-sensitive, and exposure to water or alcohols releases deuterium-containing gas and forms sodium deuteroxide NaOD. It should be stored under inert atmosphere or in dry, inert conditions.

Reactivity and applications: Like NaH, NaD is a strong base and reducing agent. In organic and inorganic synthesis, NaD serves as a source of deuterium for isotopic labeling, enabling the preparation of deuterated reagents and labeled substrates. In research settings, NaD provides a solid deuterium donor for spectroscopic studies and certain neutron-scattering experiments, where deuterium labeling is advantageous.

Safety: NaD reacts vigorously with water and air; it requires careful handling with appropriate protective equipment and dry, inert conditions to prevent exposure and ignition. See also sodium hydride and isotopic labeling.