Acrylonitrile (2-propenenitrile): Overview
Description
Acrylonitrile is used in manufacturing acrylic fabrics and carpets. It is used extensively in the manufacture of synthetic fibres, resins, plastics, elastomers, and rubber for a variety of consumer goods such as textiles, dinnerware, food containers, toys, luggage, automotive parts, small appliances, and telephones. It is also used in fumigants.
Substance details
Substance name: Acrylonitrile (2-propenenitrile)
CASR number: 107-13-1
Molecular formula: C3H3N
Synonyms: Synonyms Vinyl cyanide, 2-Propenenitrile, cyanoethylene, CAN, Fumigrain, propenonitrile, AN miller's fumigrain, TL 314, VCN (not to be confused with VCM), propenitrile, acrylonitrile monomer.
Physical properties
Colourless to pale yellow liquid with a mild pyridine-like odour. It evaporates rapidly.
Boiling Point: 77.3°C
Melting Point: -82°C
Flash Point: 0°C open cup
Vapour Pressure: 107.8 mm Hg at 25°C
Density/Specific Gravity: 0.8004 at 25/4°C
Vapour Density: 1.9
Chemical properties
Acrylonitrile is soluble in water and most common organic solvents such as acetone, benzene, carbon tetrachloride, ethyl acetate, and toluene. Acrylonitrile is a reactive chemical that polymerises spontaneously when heated, or in the presence of a strong alkali, and can explode when exposed to flame. Technical grade acrylonitrile is more than 99% pure and always contains a polymerisation inhibitor, usually methylhydroquinone. It is incompatible and reactive with strong oxidisers, acids and alkalis; bromine; and amines. It attacks copper.
Further information
The National Pollutant Inventory (NPI) holds data for all sources of acrylonitrile emissions in Australia.
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