Niobium nitride
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
| Niobium nitride | |
|---|---|
| Identifiers | |
| CAS number | [24621-21-4] |
| Properties | |
| Molecular formula | NbN |
| Molar mass | 106.913 g/mol |
| Appearance | gray |
| Density | 8.470 g/cc |
| Melting point |
2573 °C |
| Hazards | |
| NFPA 704 |
 0
2
2
|
| Except where noted otherwise, data are given for materials in their standard state (at 25 °C, 100 kPa) Infobox disclaimer and references |
|
Niobium nitride is a compound of niobium and nitrogen with the chemical formula NbN. At low temperatures, niobium nitride becomes a superconductor, and is used in detectors for infrared light.
[edit] Uses
Niobium nitride's main use is as a superconductor. Detectors based on it can detect a single photon in the 3-10 micrometer section of the infrared spectrum, which is important for astronomy and telecomunications. It can detect changes up to 25 gigahertz.
Niobium nitride is also used in absorbing anti-reflective coatings.
[edit] Health
Niobium nitride reacts with water. Ammonia gas is a hazardous byproduct. Use goggles, a lab coat, gloves, and a respirator when working with niobium nitride.
[edit] References
- Rickey, Tom (1999). Superconductors See the Light At Shorter Wavelengths. superconductors.org. Retrieved on 2006-08-08.
- Dierks, S. (1991). NbN Material Safety Data Sheet (PDF). espimetals.com. Retrieved on 2006-08-08.
- Niobium nitride. webelements.com. Retrieved on 2006-08-08.
