Benzonitrile, also known as phenyl cyanide, is a chemical compound commonly used in the manufacturing of organic pesticides, dyes, and pharmaceuticals. This compound is also utilized in various industrial applications, including as a solvent for plastics and as a precursor in the production of various chemicals.
In everyday life, benzonitrile may not be a household name, but its derivatives and products play a significant role in numerous consumer goods and products that we encounter daily. From pharmaceuticals that help treat various illnesses to pesticides that protect our crops, benzonitrile is a crucial component in the production of these essential items. Its presence in the industrial sector also highlights its importance in driving innovation and technological advancements.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
Benzonitrile, also known as phenyl cyanide, has various commercial and industrial applications. It is commonly used as a solvent in the manufacturing of coatings, adhesives, and polymers. Additionally, benzonitrile is utilized in the production of dyes, rubber chemicals, and pharmaceuticals.
In the realm of drug and medication applications, benzonitrile plays a crucial role in the synthesis of important pharmaceutical compounds. It is a key intermediate in the production of various medications, including antihypertensives and antivirals. Benzonitrile’s versatile nature and chemical properties make it an essential component in the pharmaceutical industry.
Overall, benzonitrile serves as a valuable compound in a wide range of commercial, industrial, and pharmaceutical applications. Its diverse uses highlight its significance in various sectors, from solvents and coatings to pharmaceutical intermediates. The compound’s importance lies in its ability to facilitate the synthesis of complex molecules essential for numerous products and medications.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
Benzonitrile, also known as phenyl cyanide, is a colorless liquid with a sweet almond-like odor. It is commonly used in the production of various chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and dyes due to its unique chemical properties.
With a molar mass of 103.12 g/mol and a density of 1.012 g/mL, benzonitrile is significantly lighter than common household items such as water (molar mass 18.02 g/mol, density 1 g/mL) and milk (molar mass 81.12 g/mol, density 1.03 g/mL).
Benzonitrile has a melting point of -11.2°C and a boiling point of 191.4°C. In comparison, common household items like sugar (melting point 185°C, boiling point decomposes) and salt (melting point 801°C, boiling point 1465°C) have much higher melting and boiling points.
Benzonitrile is sparingly soluble in water, but it is highly viscous, with a viscosity comparable to vegetable oil. This contrasts with common household items like salt and sugar, which are both highly soluble in water and have lower viscosities.
🏭 Production & Procurement
Benzonitrile, also known as phenyl cyanide, is primarily produced through the ammoxidation of toluene. The process involves the reaction of toluene with ammonia and oxygen over a catalyst at high temperatures to yield Benzonitrile as a product.
Benzonitrile can be procured from chemical suppliers who specialize in aromatic compounds. It is commonly available in liquid form and is typically transported in sealed containers to prevent leakage and ensure its purity. Due to its toxic nature, proper precautions must be taken during handling and transportation.
The transportation of Benzonitrile is usually carried out using specialized vehicles or containers that meet safety requirements and regulations for hazardous materials. It is important to adhere to strict guidelines to avoid potential risks and hazards associated with the handling and shipment of this chemical compound.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for Benzonitrile include its potential for toxicity and flammability. Benzonitrile is a colorless liquid with a strong odor that can be harmful if inhaled, ingested, or absorbed through the skin. Therefore, it is important to handle Benzonitrile with caution and use appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves, safety goggles, and a lab coat. It is also important to use Benzonitrile in a well-ventilated area to minimize exposure to its vapors.
The pharmacology of Benzonitrile involves its use as an intermediate in the production of various chemicals, such as pharmaceuticals, dyes, and pesticides. Benzonitrile is known for its ability to undergo various chemical reactions, such as hydrolysis, hydrogenation, and oxidation, which allow it to be transformed into different chemical compounds. Due to its versatility in chemical reactions, Benzonitrile is a valuable compound in the synthesis of various products in the chemical industry.
Hazard statements for Benzonitrile include its classification as a flammable liquid and a toxic substance. Benzonitrile poses a risk of fire and explosion if exposed to heat, sparks, or open flames due to its low flash point. In addition, Benzonitrile can cause irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory system upon contact or inhalation. It is important to store Benzonitrile in a cool, dry place away from sources of ignition and to avoid direct contact with skin, eyes, and clothing.
Precautionary statements for Benzonitrile include the need to handle the substance with care and avoid unnecessary exposure. It is important to use Benzonitrile in a well-ventilated area to prevent inhalation of its vapors and to wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves, safety goggles, and a lab coat. In case of skin contact, it is important to wash the affected area with plenty of water and soap, and in case of inhalation, it is important to move to an area with fresh air and seek medical attention if symptoms persist.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
One potential research direction for Benzonitrile is its use as a precursor in organic synthesis reactions. By exploring different reaction pathways and conditions, researchers can achieve selective functionalization of the nitrile group and generate a wide variety of derivatives with potential pharmaceutical or industrial applications.
Another avenue of investigation could involve studying the reactivity of Benzonitrile towards various electrophiles and nucleophiles. This could lead to the discovery of novel synthetic methodologies for the construction of complex molecular architectures, as well as insights into the mechanistic aspects of these reactions.
Furthermore, the exploration of Benzonitrile as a building block in the design and synthesis of new materials such as polymers or liquid crystalline compounds presents an exciting research direction. By tuning the molecular structure of Benzonitrile-based compounds, researchers can create materials with tailored properties for specific applications in sectors like electronics, optics, or medicine.
🧪 Related Compounds
One similar compound to Benzonitrile based upon molecular structure is 4-Fluorobenzonitrile. This compound also contains a benzene ring with a nitrile group attached. However, in this case, there is a fluorine atom substituted at the 4-position on the benzene ring. This substitution can alter the chemical reactivity and properties of the compound.
Another related compound is 3-Chlorobenzonitrile. Similar to Benzonitrile, this compound contains a benzene ring with a nitrile group attached. In this case, there is a chlorine atom substituted at the 3-position on the benzene ring. This substitution can result in different physical and chemical properties compared to Benzonitrile.
A third compound related to Benzonitrile is 2-Methylbenzonitrile. This compound also contains a benzene ring with a nitrile group attached. However, in this case, there is a methyl group substituted at the 2-position on the benzene ring. This substitution can lead to changes in the compound’s steric hindrance and electronic properties.
