<unk>  is a toxic compound often used as a foamer in plastics and rubber and as a radical initiator. It is commonly known as<unk> . Its most common chemical reaction is one of decomposition,  eliminating a molecule of nitrogen gas to form two 2-cyanoprop-2-yl radicals:
These radicals can be used to to initiate free radical polymerizations and other radical reactions. For instance a mixture of styrene and maleic anhydride in toluene will react if heated, forming the polystyrene polymer, only very slowly unless an initiator such an<unk>  is present. Another example of a radical reaction that can be initiated by<unk>  is the anti-Markovnikov hydrohalogenation of alkenes.<unk>  is safer to use than benzoyl peroxide (another radical initiator) because the risk of explosion is far smaller. However, it is considered a flammable solid.  
It is soluble in methanol and ethanol, but is insoluble in water. It can explode if dissolved in acetone.<unk>  is highly toxic. Wear a respirator/dust mask, protective gloves, & safety glasses when handling<unk> .
Several water-soluble azo initiators similar to<unk>  are manufactured by DuPont and Wako.
Azobisisobutyronitrile
Acetarsol
Tuaminoheptane
Ethacridine lactate
Succimer
Aminopropionitrile
Dichloroacetic acid
Methenamine mandelate