Safety
Sodium amide reacts violently with water to produce ammonia and sodium hydroxide and will burn in air to give oxides of sodium and nitrogen.
- NaNH2 + H2O → NH3 + NaOH
- 2 NaNH2 + 4 O2 → Na2O + 2 NO2 + 2 H2O
In the presence of limited quantities of air and moisture, such as in a poorly closed container, explosive mixtures of peroxides may form. This is accompanied by a yellowing or browning of the solid. As such, sodium amide should always be stored in a tightly closed container, under an atmosphere of nitrogen gas. Sodium amide samples which are yellow or brown in color should be dealt with immediately. These containers should not be handled and proper safety authorities should be notified.
Sodium amide may be expected to be corrosive to the skin, eyes and mucous membranes. Care should be taken to avoid dispersal of the dust.
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