Reaction of nitrogen with stirred solutions of lithium in liquid sodium

Abstract

The rates of reaction of nitrogen with stirred solutions of lithium in liquid sodium at 400° have been studied for the concentration range up to 28 atom % lithium. Absorption curves are of two types. At concentrations greater than 13 atom % lithium, the reaction rate is constant and independent of pressure for an appreciable proportion of the reaction. All results may be correlated on the assumption that during this stage nitrogen is in solution in the form of a solvated product (Li. Li⁺)₃N^3–; the absorption curves depart from linearity at a composition Li₆N, and precipitation is believed to commence at this point. At concentrations below 13 atom % lithium the reaction rates change throughout the reaction, consistent with continuous precipitation of Li₃N.