Silver acetylide

Description

Silver acetylide (silver carbide) (C2Ag2) is also an inorganic explosive that is highly sensitive and cannot be used in detonators. Silver acetylide is a primary explosive. It is a white powder that is sensitive to light. Generally, a chemical explosive must be confined for an explosion to take place. However, silver acetylide maintains a high energy density and will detonate without confinement. Dry silver acetylide poses an explosion hazard when exposed to heat, shock, or friction. When dry, it should not be stored indoors. Because it is light sensitive, it should be stored in a dark room. It should also be stored in an amber bottle.

Chemical properties

White, unstable powder. A salt of acety- lene.

The Uses of Silver acetylide

Detonators.

Hazard

Severe explosion risk when shocked or heated.

Safety Profile

Severe explosion hazard. A more powerful detonator than copper acetylide. Explodes when heated to 12O-14O0C. Formed when silver-containing solutions contact acetylene. Upon decomposition it emits acrid smoke and irritating fumes. See also SILVER COMPOUNDS and ACETYLIDES.