My watch list

Guanidine nitrate

Guanidine nitrate is a high energy fuel used in some gas generator and solid rocket propellant applications.

Additional recommended knowledge

Guide to balance cleaning: 8 simple steps

Weighing the right way

Recognize and detect the effects of electrostatic charges on your balance

Overview

Guanidine nitrate has chemical formula C(NH₂)₃NO₃. It has been used as a monopropellant in the Jetex engine for model airplanes. It is attractive because it has a high gas output, low flame temperature, and non-toxic combustion products. It has a relatively high monopropellant specific impulse of 177 seconds ( $1.7 kN\ x\ \tfrac {s}{kg}$ ).^[1]

Guanidine Nitrate
Other Names	Molecular Formula	CAS Number	EINECS Number
Guanidinium Nitrate	CH₆N₄O₃	506-93-4	208-060-1
Appearance	Melting Point	Boiling Point	R/S Statements
White solid	213°C	Decomposes below boiling point	R23, R24, R25
Density	Solubility in Water	NFPA 704	HAZMAT Category
$1.436 \tfrac {g}{cm^3}$	$16 \tfrac {g}{100ml};\ 20^\circ C$	1 2 4 E

Chemical Dangers:
- May explosively decompose on shock, friction, or concussion.
- May explode on heating.
- On combustion, forms toxic and corrosive fumes including nitric acid and nitrogen oxides.
- The substance is a strong oxidant and reacts with combustible and reducing materials.
Routes of Exposure: The substance can be absorbed into the body by ingestion.
Inhalation Risk: A nuisance-causing concentration of airborne particles can be reached quickly when dispersed, especially if powdered.
Effects of Short-Term Exposure: The substance is severely irritating to the eyes and the skin.
Stability: May explode if heated. May be shock sensitive.
Toxicology: Toxic if inhaled, swallowed or absorbed through the skin.