4-Fluorobenzonitrile, a chemical compound commonly used in the pharmaceutical industry, has significant relevance to everyday life. It serves as a key building block in the synthesis of various drugs and medications, playing a crucial role in the development of new pharmaceuticals that treat a wide range of illnesses and ailments. Its versatility and importance in drug discovery make it an indispensable tool for researchers and scientists striving to improve healthcare and enhance quality of life.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
4-Fluorobenzonitrile, also known as 4-FBN, is commonly used in commercial and industrial applications. It is widely employed as an intermediate in the production of pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and dyestuffs. Its high reactivity makes it a valuable starting material for various chemical reactions.
In the pharmaceutical industry, 4-Fluorobenzonitrile is utilized in the synthesis of different drugs and medications. It serves as a building block for the preparation of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) in the production of various therapeutic agents. Its versatile nature allows for the creation of complex molecular structures necessary for drug development.
Due to its chemical properties, 4-Fluorobenzonitrile is also used in the manufacturing of veterinary products and insecticides. Its ability to undergo multiple chemical transformations makes it a key component in the synthesis of potent compounds used in pest control and animal health products. Additionally, it finds application in the creation of specialty chemicals and fine chemicals for various industrial processes.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
4-Fluorobenzonitrile is a colorless liquid with a faint aromatic odor. It is known for its slightly sweet and musty scent, similar to other nitrile compounds.
With a molar mass of 135.12 g/mol and a density of 1.22 g/cm3, 4-Fluorobenzonitrile is heavier than common food items such as water (molar mass of 18.015 g/mol, density of 1 g/cm3) and vegetable oil (molar mass of around 885 g/mol, density of around 0.92 g/cm3).
4-Fluorobenzonitrile has a melting point of 9.5°C and a boiling point of 220°C. These values are higher than common food items such as sugar (melting point of around 160°C) and water (boiling point of 100°C).
This compound is sparingly soluble in water and exhibits low viscosity. Compared to common food items like table salt (high solubility in water) and honey (high viscosity), 4-Fluorobenzonitrile has different properties in terms of solubility and viscosity.
🏭 Production & Procurement
4-Fluorobenzonitrile, a chemical compound used in various industries, is typically produced through a reaction between 4-Fluoronitrobenzene and concentrated sulfuric acid. This process involves careful control of temperature and reaction conditions to ensure high yield and purity of the final product.
Once synthesized, 4-Fluorobenzonitrile can be procured from chemical suppliers who specialize in offering a wide range of fine chemicals and intermediates. The compound is typically transported in sealed containers to prevent any contamination or degradation during transit.
Due to the hazardous nature of 4-Fluorobenzonitrile, strict safety precautions must be followed during its production, procurement, and transportation. Proper labeling, handling, and storage guidelines should be adhered to at all times to minimize the risk of exposure and ensure the safe handling of this chemical compound.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for 4-Fluorobenzonitrile include its potential for skin and eye irritation. It is advised to wear appropriate protective clothing, gloves, and eye protection when handling this chemical. In case of skin contact, it is recommended to wash the affected area with soap and water. If the chemical comes into contact with the eyes, they should be flushed with water for at least 15 minutes and medical attention sought.
It is important to store 4-Fluorobenzonitrile in a cool, well-ventilated area away from incompatible materials such as strong oxidizing agents. The chemical should be kept in a tightly sealed container to avoid spills and leaks. In case of a spill, appropriate cleanup procedures should be followed, and contaminated materials disposed of properly. It is also recommended to have an emergency eyewash station and shower available in the vicinity of where the chemical is stored and used.
Hazard statements for 4-Fluorobenzonitrile include “Causes skin irritation” and “Causes serious eye irritation”. These statements indicate the potential risks associated with skin and eye exposure to the chemical. It is important to handle 4-Fluorobenzonitrile with caution and adhere to safety protocols to minimize the likelihood of harm. In case of accidental exposure, appropriate first aid measures should be taken, and medical attention sought if necessary. It is also advised to consult the safety data sheet for detailed information on the hazards of this chemical.
Precautionary statements for 4-Fluorobenzonitrile include “Wear protective gloves/eye protection” and “Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapors/spray”. These statements emphasize the importance of wearing appropriate personal protective equipment when working with this chemical to prevent skin, eye, and respiratory irritation. It is crucial to work in a well-ventilated area or use respiratory protection to minimize exposure to the chemical through inhalation. Additionally, good hygiene practices should be followed, such as washing hands thoroughly after handling 4-Fluorobenzonitrile to avoid unintentional ingestion or transfer of the chemical to other areas.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
One potential research direction for 4-Fluorobenzonitrile lies in its use as a building block for the synthesis of various organic compounds. The unique properties of this compound make it a valuable starting material for the development of new pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and materials.
Another avenue of research could focus on exploring the reactivity of 4-Fluorobenzonitrile towards different reagents and conditions. By investigating the reaction pathways and products formed, researchers can gain insights into the chemical behavior of this compound, leading to the discovery of novel transformations and applications.
Additionally, studies may center on the biological activity of 4-Fluorobenzonitrile and its derivatives. Evaluating the potential pharmacological properties of these compounds could reveal new drug candidates with improved efficacy and reduced side effects, addressing unmet medical needs in various therapeutic areas.
Furthermore, investigations into the environmental and toxicological aspects of 4-Fluorobenzonitrile are crucial for understanding its impact on ecosystems and human health. By studying its fate in the environment and evaluating its potential hazards, researchers can develop strategies to mitigate any adverse effects and ensure the safe handling and disposal of this compound.
🧪 Related Compounds
One similar compound to 4-Fluorobenzonitrile based upon molecular structure is 4-Chlorobenzonitrile. This compound also contains a benzene ring with a cyano group attached. The only difference is the substitution of a fluorine atom with a chlorine atom on the benzene ring.
Another similar compound is 4-Methylbenzonitrile. This compound retains the benzene ring with the cyano group attached, but instead of a fluorine atom, there is a methyl group. This change in the substituent alters the chemical properties of the compound while maintaining the basic structure.
Additionally, 4-Nitrobenzonitrile is a similar compound to 4-Fluorobenzonitrile. It shares the same benzene ring with the cyano group, but the difference lies in the substitution of a nitro group for the fluorine atom. This alteration impacts the reactivity and properties of the compound compared to 4-Fluorobenzonitrile.
