Butanenitrile

C4H7N

butanenitrile

CAS109-74-0
GHS02 Gefahrensymbol: Entzündbar – Flamme
GHS06 Gefahrensymbol: Giftig – Totenkopf mit Knochen
Danger

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Identification

CAS Number
109-74-0
EC Number
203-700-6
UN Number
2411
Index Number
608-005-00-5
PubChem CID
8008

Physical-chemical properties

Molecular Formula
C4H7N
Molar Mass
69.11 g/mol
IUPAC Name
butanenitrile

Chemical Identifiers

InChI
InChI=1S/C4H7N/c1-2-3-4-5/h2-3H2,1H3
InChI Key
KVNRLNFWIYMESJ-UHFFFAOYSA-N

Overview

Butanenitrile (CAS 109-74-0) is an aliphatic nitrile compound with four carbon atoms and significant industrial solvent properties. This organic nitrile, also known by its IUPAC name butanenitrile, represents an important member of the aliphatic nitrile family used extensively in chemical manufacturing and synthesis applications. With the molecular formula C4H7N and a molecular weight of 69.11 g/mol, this colorless liquid exhibits characteristics typical of short-chain nitriles while offering specific advantages in various industrial processes. The compound presents notable safety considerations due to its classification as a flammable liquid (Category 2) and acute toxicity (Category 3) across multiple exposure routes. The presence of GHS02 and GHS06 pictograms indicates both fire and acute toxicity hazards, requiring appropriate handling protocols and safety measures during storage and use. Its ADR Class 3 classification confirms its status as a flammable liquid for transportation purposes, necessitating compliance with relevant shipping regulations. Butanenitrile finds primary applications as a chemical intermediate in pharmaceutical synthesis, where its nitrile functionality enables various chemical transformations. The compound serves as an effective polar aprotic solvent in organic synthesis reactions, particularly those requiring selective solvation properties. Additionally, it functions as a building block in the production of specialty chemicals and fine chemical intermediates. Like other nitrile compounds such as prop-2-enenitrile, butanenitrile demonstrates versatility in synthetic chemistry applications, though its four-carbon chain length provides distinct reactivity and solubility characteristics. As a specialized chemical distributor, OYSI maintains availability of high-quality butanenitrile to support diverse industrial and research applications across European markets, ensuring reliable supply chains for customers requiring this important chemical intermediate.

Safety & Classification

Danger
Classification:

Flam. Liq. 2; Acute Tox. 3 *; Acute Tox. 3 *; Acute Tox. 3 *

HHazard Statements (H-Statements)

Describe the nature and severity of the hazard

H225

Highly flammable liquid and vapour.

H331

Toxic if inhaled.

H311

Toxic in contact with skin.

H301

Toxic if swallowed.

Classification according to CLP Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008. The complete list of hazard and precautionary statements can be found in the Safety Data Sheet (SDS).

First Aid Measures

Inhalation

Toxic

Measures if vapours or dust are inhaled

First Aid Actions

  • +P304IF INHALED:
  • +P340Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing.
  • +P311Call a POISON CENTER/doctor.

Related hazard statements:

Skin Contact

Toxic

Measures if substance contacts the skin

First Aid Actions

  • +P302IF ON SKIN:
  • +P352Wash with plenty of water.
  • +P361Take off immediately all contaminated clothing.
  • +P313Get medical advice/attention.

Related hazard statements:

Ingestion

Toxic

Measures if substance is accidentally swallowed

First Aid Actions

  • +P301IF SWALLOWED:
  • +P330Rinse mouth.
  • +P331Do NOT induce vomiting.
  • +P310Immediately call a POISON CENTER/doctor.

Related hazard statements:

General Measures

Emergency 112 | Poison Control: +49 30 19240 (DE), +33 1 45 42 59 59 (FR), +31 30 274 88 88 (NL)

First aid measures are based on CLP classification and associated P-statements. They do not replace the Safety Data Sheet (SDS). In case of emergency, always consult the full SDS and a physician.

Transport (ADR)

UN Number2411
ADR Class3
Packing GroupII
Tunnel CodeD/E
Proper Shipping NameButyronitril
Marine PollutantNo

Frequently Asked Questions

What is butanenitrile?

Butanenitrile is an organic chemical compound with the molecular formula C4H7N and a molecular weight of 69.11 g/mol. It belongs to the nitrile family of chemicals, characterized by the presence of a cyano group (-CN). This substance is classified as a flammable liquid and toxic compound, requiring careful handling due to its hazardous properties. It appears as a colorless liquid with a distinctive odor and is used in various industrial applications.

What are the physicochemical properties of butanenitrile?

Butanenitrile is a colorless liquid at room temperature with a characteristic sharp, unpleasant odor. It has a molecular weight of 69.11 g/mol and is moderately soluble in water while being miscible with most organic solvents. The compound exhibits flammable properties and has a relatively low flash point, making it a Class 2 flammable liquid. Its nitrile functional group gives it polar characteristics that influence its solubility and reactivity patterns.

What is butanenitrile used for?

Butanenitrile is primarily used as a chemical intermediate in organic synthesis and pharmaceutical manufacturing. It serves as a building block for producing various compounds including pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and specialty chemicals. The compound is also utilized in the synthesis of heterocyclic compounds and as a solvent in certain chemical reactions. Its nitrile group makes it valuable for creating nitrogen-containing organic molecules through various chemical transformations.

How to handle butanenitrile safely?

Butanenitrile requires strict safety measures due to its flammable and toxic nature. Personal protective equipment must include chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles, and appropriate respiratory protection when handling this substance. Work should be conducted in well-ventilated areas or under fume hoods to prevent inhalation exposure. Eliminate all ignition sources as the compound is highly flammable. Emergency eyewash stations and safety showers should be readily accessible during handling operations.

How to store butanenitrile correctly?

Butanenitrile must be stored in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from heat sources, sparks, and open flames. The storage area should be equipped with appropriate fire suppression systems due to its flammable nature. Containers should be tightly sealed and made of compatible materials to prevent contamination or degradation. Store away from strong oxidizing agents and bases to prevent dangerous reactions. Temperature control is important to maintain product stability and safety.

What to do in case of contact with butanenitrile?

Immediate action is required following exposure to butanenitrile due to its toxicity. For skin contact, remove contaminated clothing and wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and water for at least 15 minutes. In case of eye contact, flush immediately with clean water for at least 15 minutes and seek medical attention. If inhaled, move the person to fresh air and seek medical help if breathing difficulties occur. For ingestion, do not induce vomiting and seek immediate medical attention.

How to dispose of butanenitrile appropriately?

Butanenitrile disposal must comply with local and European waste regulations due to its hazardous classification. The substance cannot be disposed of through regular waste streams and requires specialized hazardous waste treatment. Contact licensed waste disposal companies that can handle flammable and toxic organic compounds. Incineration at high temperatures in approved facilities is typically the preferred disposal method. Never discharge butanenitrile into sewers, water bodies, or soil as it poses environmental risks.

How to transport butanenitrile?

Butanenitrile is classified under ADR Class 3 (flammable liquids), Packing Group II, requiring specific transport regulations. Packages must meet UN specification requirements and display appropriate hazard labels including GHS02 and GHS06 pictograms. Transport vehicles must carry emergency equipment and comply with tunnel restrictions. Drivers require ADR training and certification for dangerous goods transport. Proper shipping documentation including safety data sheets must accompany all shipments to ensure regulatory compliance.

Is butanenitrile subject to specific regulations?

Butanenitrile is subject to various European regulations including REACH registration requirements and CLP classification standards. The substance is classified with multiple hazard classes including Flam. Liq. 2 and Acute Tox. 3, requiring appropriate labeling and safety data sheets. It is not currently listed as a SVHC (Substance of Very High Concern) under REACH. Companies handling butanenitrile must comply with occupational safety regulations and may need to implement risk management measures depending on usage volumes.

Where to buy butanenitrile in Europe?

Butanenitrile is available through OYSI, a European chemical distributor specializing in technical and specialty chemicals. OYSI provides reliable supply chains across Europe with proper documentation and regulatory compliance for hazardous substances. As a professional distributor, OYSI ensures that butanenitrile shipments include complete safety data sheets, proper packaging, and ADR-compliant transport. Contact OYSI for availability, technical specifications, and delivery options throughout European markets while ensuring full regulatory compliance.

Data Sources

Classification per CLP Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008. Data from ECHA and PubChem.