[AMC]

Hi all,

So im in the process of quenching about 10g of sodium azide using sodium nitrite and sulfuric acid

See: http://chemwiki.ucdavis.edu/Reference/Lab_Techniques/Reagent_Specific_Hazards/Sodium_Azide

Just wondering is it usual for the solution to turn orange (goes to dark brown) Im assuming this is due to the production of nitric oxide?

As not all the waste was produced by myself, im a little worried that there may be some contaminants

[AWK]

You are right. This may be caused by too fast addition of acid, and its excess. But always some nitric oxides are formed by decomposition of HNO₂
2HNO2 = NO + NO₂ + H₂O
and
2NO + O2 = 2NO2

[AMC]

Thank you.

I tested it on fresh small scale, and the solution eventually goes clear, I may leave it stir at acidic pH overnight and see if it dissipates.