A simple method for the preparation of 3,5-dinitrimino-1,2,4-triazole and its salts

The reaction of 2-methyl-1-nitrоisothiourea with hydrazine in the presence of alkali metal bicarbonates (carbonates) resulted in the formation of 3,5-dinitrimino-1,2,4-triazole salts. The same salts were also formed by a reaction of 2-methyl-1-nitrоisothiourea with alkali metal salts of 4-nitrоsemicarbazide. This represents the first synthesis and characterization of the high-energy 3,5-dinitrimino-1,2,4-triazole, which can be readily isolated by treatment of its disodium salt with HCl.