Science Fair Project Encyclopedia
Acrylonitrile
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General |
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| Name | Acrylonitrile |
| Chemical formula | CH2=CH-C≡N |
| Appearance | Colourless to pale yellow liquid |
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Physical |
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| Formula weight | 53.06 amu |
| Melting point | 189 K (-84 °C) |
| Boiling point | 350 K (77 °C) |
| Density | 0.8 ×103 kg/m3 |
| Solubility | 7 g/100 mL at 20 °C |
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Thermochemistry |
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| ΔfH0liquid | kJ/mol |
| S0liquid, 1 bar | J/mol·K |
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Safety | |
| Flammability | Extremely flammable and highly reactive. Gives off toxic fumes whilst burning. |
| Ingestion | Headache, excitement, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, stupor, and coma. |
| Inhalation | Headache, dizziness, unconsciousness and coma. High concentrations may be fatal. |
| Skin | Irritation. Can be absorbed through skin. Repeated exposures cause sensitization. |
| Eyes | Severe irritation, pain and blurred vision. |
| More info | Hazardous Chemical Database |
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SI units were used where possible. Unless otherwise stated, standard conditions were used. | |
Acrylonitrile (CH2=CH-C≡N), is a pungent smelling, extremely flammable organic liquid.
It is also known as cyanoethylene or vinyl cyanide. Its IUPAC name is 2-Propenenitrile.
Uses
Acrylonitrile is used principally as a precursor monomer in the manufacture of synthetic polymers, especially acrylic fibers, nylon, and synthetic rubber. Small amounts are also used as a fumigant.
Production
Most industrial acrylonitrile is produced through the Sohio process, the catalytic ammoxidation of propylene:
World annual production in 2001 was 4 million tonnes, with just under half of that coming from the USA.
Safety
Acrylonitrile is highly flammable, and can be easily ignited from a spark, or spontaneously on contact with certain oxidizers. Unless chemical stabilizers called "inhibitors" are added, it may also undergo explosive polymerization when heated, on contact with strong alkalis, or when exposed to ultraviolet light. The burning material releases fumes of hydrogen cyanide and oxides of nitrogen. Store in a well ventilated flammable material store away from incompatible materials, and avoid sparks.
The material is also toxic. Contact with skin or the eyes produces severe irritation. Inhalation or prolonged skin contact can produce confusion, unconsciousness, and death. Wear approved safety goggles, gloves and respirator during handling.
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