506-64-9

  • English Name: Silver Cyanide
  • CAS Number: 506-64-9
  • Molecular Formula: AgCN
  • Molecular Weight: 133.88 g/mol

Physical Properties

  • Appearance: White to light gray powder.
  • Odor: Odorless.
  • Density: 3.95 g/cm³.
  • Melting Point: 300°C.
  • Boiling Point: 25.7°C at 760 mmHg.
  • Solubility:
    • Insoluble in water and ethanol.
    • Soluble in ammonia, hot concentrated nitric acid, and thiosulfate solutions.

Chemical Properties

  • Stability: Stable in dry air; decomposes above 320°C.
  • Reactivity:
    • Reacts with acids to release toxic hydrogen cyanide gas.
    • Forms complexes with alkali metal cyanides.
  • Photoreactivity: Darkens upon exposure to light.

Synthesis

  1. Metal Silver Method: Silver is dissolved in nitric acid, diluted with water, and reacted with sodium cyanide to form a precipitate of silver cyanide.
    • Reaction: Ag + 2HNO₃ → AgNO₃ + H₂O + NO₂↑
    • AgNO₃ + NaCN → AgCN↓ + NaNO₃.
  2. Double Decomposition Method: Silver nitrate reacts with potassium cyanide to form silver cyanide.
    • Reaction: AgNO₃ + KCN → AgCN↓ + KNO₃.

Uses

  • Medicine: Used in pharmaceuticals.
  • Electroplating: Used for silver plating and coating bearings in aircraft engines.
  • Protective Coatings: Used as a lining for pressurized heat exchangers.
  • Catalyst: Used in organic synthesis and as a catalyst for the synthesis of heterocyclic compounds.

Safety Information

  • Toxicity: Highly toxic; ingestion, inhalation, and skin contact can be fatal.
  • Health Hazards: Causes severe irritation to skin and eyes; exposure to light darkens the compound.
  • First Aid:
    • Skin Contact: Rinse with soap and water.
    • Eye Contact: Rinse with water for at least 15 minutes.
    • Ingestion: Drink water and seek medical attention.
  • Storage: Store in a cool, dry place, away from light and acids.
  • Transportation: UN Number 1684; classified as a toxic substance.

Environmental Information

  • Ecotoxicity: Highly toxic to aquatic life and may cause long-term adverse effects.

Packing and shipping