Nitrogen Triiodide (NI3)​
Nitrogen triiodide is the inorganic compound with the formula NI3. It is an extremely sensitive contact explosive.
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There are currently no industrial uses for nitrogen triiodide, but the substance is often used as an example ofÌýa contact explosive. Demonstrations can take ammonia (NH3) solution and pour it on to iodine. The iodineÌýreplaces the hydrogen for some of the molecules making an adduct of NH3Ìýand NI3. The instability comesÌýfrom the crowding of 3 iodine molecules on the nitrogen atom, the explosive reaction is 2NI3(s)Ìý→ÌýN2(g) +Ìý3I2(g).​
Recommended control measures​
This is a controlled chemical (explosive)Ìý– see information on standards for all ³¦´Ç²Ô³Ù°ù´Ç±ô±ô±ð»åÌý³¦³ó±ð³¾¾±³¦²¹±ô²õ.
Minimise the risk of exposure
°×С½ãÂÛ̳ (and other teaching institutes) can make and use 0.5 g of explosive in oneÌýlocation for demonstration purposes, without additional licences. Do not use amounts that will exceed thisÌýlimit.​
Storage
Do not store​
Use
Preparation must be done in a fumeÌýcupboard,Ìýeye protection and gloves must be worn when handlingÌýchemicals. Hearing protection should be worn before there is a risk of explosion by both the demonstratorÌýand the students. If leaving to dry overnight, warning signs must beÌýleftÌýand access restricted to the location​
Health surveillanceÌý​
WEL STEL = 0.1 ppm or 1.1 mg/m3ÌýÌýThere must be a system in place to ensure theÌýWELs are not reached or exceeded.​
Chemical safety library
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Last updated: Tuesday, June 23, 2020