Acetonitrile, Brand Name : LOKI INDUSTRIES, Form : LIQUID

1. Basic identity

• Name: Acetonitrile (systematic: ethanenitrile)

• Typical abbreviations: MeCN, ACN

• CAS No.: 75-05-8

• Molecular formula: C₂H₃N

• Molecular weight: 41.05 g·mol⁻¹

2. Key physical properties (typical)

• Appearance: Colorless liquid

• Odour: Mild, ethereal/ether-like

• Boiling point (≈): 81.6 °C

• Melting point (≈): −45.7 °C

• Density (20 °C, ≈): 0.786 g·cm⁻³

• Refractive index (n₂₀D): ≈ 1.344

• Viscosity (25 °C, ≈): ≈ 0.3–0.4 cP

• Dielectric constant (20 °C): ≈ 36.6 (polar aprotic solvent)

• Solubility: Completely miscible with water and most organic solvents

• Flammability: Flammable liquid / vapour (low flash point) — handle as combustible chemical

3. Major applications

• HPLC / Chromatography mobile phase (very common).

• Synthetic organic solvent — SN2, nitrile chemistry, coupling reactions, organometallic chemistry.

• Electrolytes / battery industry (component for Li-ion electrolytes).

• Pharmaceuticals & fine chemicals synthesis and extractions.

• Polymer chemistry (polymerizations, polymer processing solvents).

• Spectroscopy & analytical labs (NMR solvent sometimes — deuterated form CD₃CN used for NMR).

• Industrial processes — cyanohydrin production, acetamide/other derivatives, extraction/cleaning tasks where polar aprotic solvent is required.

4. Safety, hazards & first aid (practical summary)

• Hazards: Flammable; harmful by inhalation, ingestion and skin contact; can affect the central nervous system (headache, dizziness, nausea); chronic exposure potential (see MSDS).

• PPE: Safety goggles, chemical-resistant gloves (nitrile gloves okay), lab coat/coveralls, use in well-ventilated area or fume hood; respirator if ventilation inadequate.

• Storage: Tightly closed containers, cool/ventilated area, away from heat/ignition sources and strong oxidizers. Store per local/regional regulations.

• Spill response: Eliminate sources of ignition; absorb spills with inert material (e.g., vermiculite), collect for proper disposal; prevent discharge to drains.

• Fire-fighting: Use foam, dry chemical or CO₂ — do not use water jet. Firefighters should wear SCBA.

• First aid:

  • Inhalation: Move to fresh air; seek medical attention if symptoms persist.

  • Skin contact: Remove contaminated clothing; wash skin with soap/water.

  • Eye contact: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes; seek medical attention.

  • Ingestion: Do NOT induce vomiting — seek immediate medical help.

Always use the supplier’s MSDS/SDS for complete and authoritative safety instructions and emergency data.