A colourless liquid of formula HN₃ and strong reducing power, counted among the disinfectants used in food plants. Like all potent biocides, it must be applied at controlled concentrations with proper rinsing and safety precautions, since residues and operator exposure are both concerns. Its use illustrates the specialized chemistry behind food-plant sanitation, where each disinfectant is chosen for efficacy against target organisms, compatibility with equipment materials, and a residue profile acceptable for food-contact surfaces. Because it is highly reactive and potentially explosive in concentrated form, it is handled only as dilute solutions under strict safety protocols.