PREPARATION OF METAL NITRIDES BY THE EXPLODING WIRE TECHNIQUE

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Abstract
An exploratory research program investigated the possibility of preparing metal nitrides by electrically exploding metal wires and foils in an atmsophere of (a) nitrogen, (b) ammonia, or (c) nitrogen and hydrogen. The explosions were carried out in an enclosed stainless steel pressure vessel. In a few cases, the wire was exploded while covered with liquid nitrogen in a stainless steel container maintained at liquid nitrogen temperatures.The samples were analyzed using a modified Kjeldahl method for nitrogen. Greater yields of nitrides were obtained when a greater charge was given the oil-filled condensers used to supply the current, and when the pressure of gas surrounding the wire was increased. Yields as high as 50% were obtained in some cases. Clearly defined nitrides were obtained with magnesium, titanium, zirconium, tantalum, zinc, and aluminium. The metals iron, rhodium, platinum, copper, and cadmium did not appear to form stable nitrides under the experimental conditions.A brief discussion of a mechanism by which a wire may explode is given.

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