Calcium nitride is an inorganic compound, containing calcium and nitrogen. It has several isomorphous forms. Among them, -calcium nitride is the most common form.
The chemical formula of calcium nitride is Ca3N2. It is produced by heating metallic calcium in a purified nitrogen stream. After 3 to 4 hours, the crystal structure becomes loose and the metallic calcium is nitrided to calcium nitride.
Calcium nitride is used in the production of phosphors. Since it is a soft metal, it can donate or accept electrons, and thus gain or lose charge.
Calcium nitride is a flammable material. Therefore, it should be stored in a dry, cool place. In addition, it should not be stored in contact with heat or air.
Calcium nitride can be purchased in bulk. If it is stored in open flames or under heavy pressure, it can burn. Moreover, repeated exposure to Ca3N2 has been linked to eye damage.
Calcium nitride is also useful as a nitride source in metathesis reactions. Calcium nitride is a component in LED phosphors. As such, it is a critical hydrogen storage material. Moreover, it is an important chemical treating agent.
Calcium nitride can react with water, ammonia, and nitrites. However, it is important to note that it cannot react with ammonia alone. Instead, it is usually combined with other reactive nitride ions. This results in a high-end phosphor with better performance.
Calcium nitride can also be used as a chemical analysis reagent. When heated with hydrogen, it produces calcium hydride.
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