Comments
All azide salts are unstable, and some explode after heat or shock. Organic azides are sensitized by metal salts or strong acids. Azides emit toxic fumes when heated to decomposition. [Sax] The azide group (N3) has an affinity for ferric iron in mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase. Like cyanide poisoning, azide poisoning disrupts cellular aerobic metabolism. [AHLS, p. 202] "Most of the fulminates and azides of heavy metals are sensitive explosives. These materials do not make efficient explosives; their sole attraction is their sensitivity." [Reference #1] See "Sodium azide."