Selective Thermolysis of Azide Groups in 2,4,6-Triazidopyridines

When refluxed in 1,4-dichlorobenzene, the compound 2,4,6-triazido-3,5-dichloropyridine and its 3,5-dicyano derivative undergo selective thermolysis of the -azide groups, forming the corresponding 4-amino-2,6-diazidopyridines in high yields. According to quantum-chemical calculations, the selectivity of thermolysis of the -azide groups in triazides is due to the weaker bonding interactions between the N₍₎ and N₍₎ atoms in these azide groups.