Thallium azide

Thallium azide

Names
Other names thallium azide
Identifiers
CAS Number	53027-05-7
3D model (JSmol)	Interactive image
ChemSpider	15368504
PubChem CID	22764821
CompTox Dashboard (EPA)	DTXSID00628243
InChI InChI=1S/N3.Tl/c1-3-2;/q-1;+1 Key: GMUSFHMEMWCQIE-UHFFFAOYSA-N InChI=1/N3.Tl/c1-3-2;/q-1;+1 Key: GMUSFHMEMWCQIE-UHFFFAOYAP
SMILES [Tl+].[N-]=[N+]=[N-]
Properties
Chemical formula	TlN3
Molar mass	246.4035
Appearance	yellow-brown
Solubility in water	insoluble
Structure
Crystal structure	Tetragonal, tI16 [1]
Space group	I4/mcm, No. 140
Hazards
Main hazards	very toxic
EU classification (DSD) (outdated)	T+ E C N
NFPA 704 (fire diamond)	0 4 3
Except where otherwise noted, data are given for materials in their standard state (at 25 °C [77 °F], 100 kPa).

Thallium azide, TlN₃, is a yellow-brown crystalline solid poorly soluble in water. Although it is not nearly as sensitive to shock or friction as lead azide, it can easily be detonated by a flame or spark. It can be stored safely dry in a closed non-metallic container.

Preparation and structure

Thallium azide can be prepared treating an aqueous solution of thallium(I) sulfate with sodium azide. Thallium azide will precipitate; the yield can be maximized by cooling.

TlN₃, KN₃, RbN₃, and CsN₃ adopt the same structures. The azide is bound to eight cations in an eclipsed orientation. The cations are bound to eight terminal N centers.^[2]

Coordination sphere of azide in K,Rb,Cs,TlN₃.

Safety

All thallium compounds are poisonous and should be handled with care; avoid breathing any dust or fumes.

References