Acetonitrile (MeCN, CH₃CN) is a colorless liquid and the simplest organic nitrile. It has a linear structure with a short C≡N bond. First prepared in 1847 by Jean-Baptiste Dumas, acetonitrile is mainly produced as a byproduct in the manufacture of acrylonitrile.
🏭⚗️ Production & Synthesis
Acetonitrile is used in the synthesis of chemicals like acetamidine hydrochloride and thiamine. While alternative production methods exist (e.g., dehydration of acetamide), they are not commercially significant. In 1992, the U.S. produced about 14,700 tonnes.
🧪 Applications
Industry: Used to purify butadiene in refineries.
Laboratory: Acts as a polar aprotic solvent, miscible with water and many organics. Its properties make it ideal for HPLC, LC–MS, and electrochemical applications.
Pharmaceuticals & Synthesis: Used in oligonucleotide synthesis and pharmaceutical manufacturing.
Batteries: Effective in dissolving electrolytes due to its high dielectric constant.
⚠️ Safety
Though only moderately toxic in small doses, it metabolizes into hydrogen cyanide, leading to delayed toxicity. Poisoning symptoms include breathing issues, nausea, and in severe cases, coma or death. Treatment is similar to cyanide poisoning. It has been banned in cosmetics in the EU since 2000 due to safety concerns.
