fulminate

Fulminate refers to salts derived from fulminic acid and the fulminate anion, commonly described as salts containing the [CNO]− unit. In chemistry, fulminates are a family of energetic compounds known for their instability and, in many cases, extreme sensitivity to impact, friction, heat, or confinement. The term is sometimes extended to esters and organic derivatives that exhibit similar energetic properties.

The fulminate ion is typically described as a linear or near-linear arrangement of carbon, nitrogen, and oxygen with varying resonance forms. In practice, fulminates exist as ionic compounds formed from a metal cation and the fulminate anion, yielding salts such as silver fulminate (AgCNO), lead(II) fulminate (Pb(CNO)2), and potassium or sodium fulminate (KCNO, NaCNO). These materials are usually moisture-sensitive and can detonate under modest stimuli, making them highly dangerous to handle outside specialized contexts.

Notable aspects and uses: Historically, fulminates were among the first groups of primary explosives used in initiators, detonators, and percussion caps. Their extreme sensitivity made them useful for triggering more stable explosives, but also rendered them hazardous to produce, transport, or store. Consequently, most modern applications have shifted toward safer initiators and alternatives, and many fulminates are now of primarily historical or specialized research interest.

Safety and handling: Fulminates require strict safety measures and are typically restricted to controlled laboratory or industrial environments. They can pose severe health and safety risks if mishandled, including unintended detonation.

See also: fulminic acid, primary explosive, explosive initiator.