On the Formation of N3 H3 Isomers in Irradiated Ammonia Bearing Ices: Triazene (H2 NNNH) or Triimide (HNHNNH)

Abstract

The remarkable versatility of triazenes in synthesis, polymer chemistry and pharmacology has led to numerous experimental and theoretical studies. Surprisingly, only very little is known about the most fundamental triazene: the parent molecule with the chemical formula N3 H3 . Here we observe molecular, isolated N3 H3 in the gas phase after it sublimes from energetically processed ammonia and nitrogen films. Combining theoretical studies with our novel detection scheme of photoionization-driven reflectron time-of-flight mass spectroscopy we can obtain information on the isomers of triazene formed in the films. Using isotopically labeled starting material, we can additionally gain insight in the formation pathways of the isomers of N3 H3 under investigation and identify the isomers formed as triazene (H2 NNNH) and possibly triimide (HNHNNH).

Keywords: ammonia; matrix isolation; nitrogen chain molecules; triazene; triimides.