Laser-induced decomposition of sodium azide

The decomposition of sodium azide, NaN₃, has been studied using a pulsed carbon dioxide laser. Chemiluminescence associated with the decomposition has been measured with and, without, the azide surface in the detector field of view. Near the decomposition threshold, emission has been observed in the wings of the Na 3p → 3s transition at 589 nm that has not been observed in previous azide decomposition experiments. This emission may be a result of surface reactions. Raman and visible absorption spectra have been obtained for the irradiated material; a new, as yet unidentified, band was observed in the Raman spectrum.