Acetonitrile (ACN) appears as a colorless liquid with a pungent odor and a molecular weight of 41.05. Its melting point at room temperature is -45.7°C, while its boiling point ranges between 81-82°C. Regarding relative density, acetonitrile measures 0.79. This solvent is highly volatile and emits a distinctive ether-like aroma.
acetonitrile solvent properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Molecular Weight | 41.05 g/mol |
| Boiling Point | 81.60 °C |
| Freezing Point | −43.8 °C |
| Vapor Pressure | 88.8 Torr at 25 °C |
| Density (20 °C) | 0.7822 g/mL (6.527 lb/gal) |
| Density (25 °C) | 0.7766 g/mL (6.481 lb/gal) |
| Refractive Index | 1.3441 at 20 °C |
| Dielectric Constant | 37.5 at 20 °C |
| Dipole Moment | 3.44 D at 20 °C |
| Solvent Group | 6 |
| Polarity Index (P′) | 5.8 |
| Eluotropic Value (Alumina) | 0.65 |
| Eluotropic Value (Octadecylsilane, C18) | 3.1 |
| Eluotropic Value (Silica) | 0.52 |
| Viscosity | 0.38 cP at 15 °C |
| Surface Tension | 19.10 dyn/cm at 20 °C |
| Solubility in Water | Miscible in all proportions |
acetonitrile applications
Acetonitrile (CAS 75-05-8), as a polar organic solvent, has extensive applications. Below are several common application areas:
Chemical Synthesis
Acetonitrile serves as a common solvent and dehydrating agent in numerous organic synthesis reactions.
Pharmaceuticals
Acetonitrile is a widely used solvent in the pharmaceutical industry, employed in the production of antibiotics, hormones, vitamins, drug intermediates, and more.
Metal Surface Treatment
During metal surface processing, acetonitrile forms complexes with impurity ions in metals, facilitating the removal of surface contaminants and pollutants.
Other Applications
Acetonitrile also serves as a solvent or reaction intermediate for dyes, coatings, plastics, rubber, textiles, and more. Additionally, it is used for sample pretreatment in instrumental analyses such as gas chromatography, NMR, and infrared spectroscopy.
acetonitrile solvent：Safety and Health Hazards
Small amounts of acetonitrile are relatively toxic, but in large doses, it can be converted into hydrogen cyanide, which is toxic. Since it takes time for the body to metabolize acetonitrile to cyanide, its toxic effects are delayed. The eyes, throat, lungs, and nose can become irritated.
Its long-term effects are thyroid enlargement, headaches, numbness, lack of appetite, dizziness, weakness, and tremors. Scientists observe animal reproductive problems, including birth defects and low birth weights. Acetonitrile can affect the liver, lungs, central nervous system, and kidneys for a long time.
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