Tetrazene explosive

Tetrazene explosive

Names
IUPAC name 1-(5-tetrazolyl)-3-guanyl tetrazene hydrate
Identifiers
CAS Registry Number	31330-63-9 Y
Jmol-3D images	Image
PubChem	5486788
SMILES N=C(N)N(N)/N=N/C1=NNN=N1
Properties
Chemical formula	C2H6N10·H2O
Molar mass	188.15 g/mol
Appearance	Pale yellow/colorless crystal plates
Density	1.7 g/cm3
Boiling point	Decomposes at 160 °C
Explosive data
Shock sensitivity	High
Friction sensitivity	High
Detonation velocity	~4000 m/s
Except where noted otherwise, data is given for materials in their standard state (at 25 °C (77 °F), 100 kPa)
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Infobox references

Tetrazene (1-(5-tetrazolyl)-3-guanyl tetrazene hydrate)^[1] is an explosive material used for sensitization of the priming compositions. It is a derivative of the compound with the IUPAC name tetrazene.

Tetrazene is slightly more impact-sensitive than mercury fulminate. When pressed enough, its sensitivity is reduced or destroyed; this is known as dead pressing. It also decomposes in boiling water. In contact with fire, it readily explodes, producing large amounts of black smoke. It is prepared by reacting sodium nitrite with an aminoguanidine salt dissolved in acetic acid at 30–40 °C.

References

• "MIL-T-46938C, MILITARY SPECIFICATION: TETRACENE" (PDF). United States Department of Defense. 16 May 1994.