Preparation and mechanism of thermal decomposition of alkali metal (Li, Na and K) salts of 3-nitro-1,2,4-triazol-5-one

Three alkali metal salts of 3-nitro-1,2,4-triazol-5-one (NTO) were prepared and characterized. These salts are all hydrates: M(NTO).nH 2 O; when M is Li, Na and K, n is 2, 1 and 1, respectively. Their 13 C NMR and infrared spectra are reported. Their thermal decomposition mechanisms and kinetic parameters from ambient temperature to 600 o C were studied under conditions of linear temperature increase. Although all three salts are alkali metal salts, their thermal decomposition mechanisms are very different