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Electrochemical remediation produces a new high-nitrogen compound from NTO wastewaters
Michael P Cronin1, Anthony I Day, Lynne Wallace
1School of Physical, Mathematical and Environmental Sciences, University College, University of New South Wales, Australian Defence Force Academy, Northcott Drive, Campbell, ACT 2600, Australia.
Abstract:
A new high-nitrogen molecule, identified as azoxytriazolone (AZTO), has been generated in high yield by electroreduction of acidic aqueous solutions of nitrotriazolone (NTO). The near-quantitative conversion appears to be driven by the low solubility of the product. AZTO precipitates readily, leaving the solution virtually free of organic material, and the process may therefore present an efficient and productive remediation method for wastewater from NTO manufacture. The chemical formula and molecular structure of AZTO indicate that it may be effective as an insensitive explosive.
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