Thermal decomposition of the energetic ionic liquids 1-methyl-4-amino-1,2,4-triazolium iodide (Me4ATI), 1-methyl-4-amino-1,2,4-triazolium nitrate (Me4ATN), 1-amino-3-methyl-1,2,3-triazolium iodide (Me1ATI), and 1-amino-3-methyl-1,2,3-triazolium nitrate (Me1ATN) was studied by confined rapid thermolysis. Sub-milligram quantities of the compounds were subjected to decomposition under isothermal conditions achieved by initially heating the sample at rates of approximately 2000 K/s. The products formed by decomposition under the afore-mentioned conditions were sampled by rapid scan FTIR spectroscopy and time-of-flight mass spectrometry. Decomposition studies involving the iodide salts were carried out around 270-290 degrees C, whereas the nitrate salts were subjected to 320-340 degrees C. The amino group was found to be involved in the initiation reaction, forming copious quantities of ammonia from the iodide compounds and, N2O and H2O from the nitrate compounds. The extent of decomposition of the triazole ring was minimal at the considered temperatures. (C) 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.