Cyanamide
CH2N2
cyanamide
Consulting for Cyanamide
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Identification
- CAS Number
- 420-04-2
- EC Number
- 206-992-3
- UN Number
- 2923
- Index Number
- 615-013-00-2
- PubChem CID
- 9864
Physical-chemical properties
- Molecular Formula
- CH2N2
- Molar Mass
- 42.04 g/mol
- IUPAC Name
- cyanamide
Chemical Identifiers
- InChI
- InChI=1S/CH2N2/c2-1-3/h2H2
- InChI Key
- XZMCDFZZKTWFGF-UHFFFAOYSA-N
Overview
Cyanamide (CAS 420-04-2) is a nitrogen-containing organic compound with the molecular formula CH2N2, characterized by its high reactivity and diverse industrial applications. This crystalline compound, also known by its IUPAC name cyanamide, represents a fundamental building block in organic synthesis and industrial chemistry. With a molecular weight of 42.04 g/mol, cyanamide exhibits remarkable chemical versatility due to its unique structure containing both amino and nitrile functional groups. The compound appears as white crystals or powder at room temperature and demonstrates significant solubility in water and polar organic solvents. From a safety perspective, cyanamide requires careful handling due to its classification as a Category 2 carcinogen and reproductive toxicant. The substance carries GHS pictograms GHS08, GHS06, and GHS05, indicating serious health hazards, acute toxicity, and corrosive properties. Its classification includes skin corrosion, eye damage, and skin sensitization properties, necessitating appropriate personal protective equipment and containment measures. The compound falls under ADR Class 8, reflecting its corrosive nature during transportation. Industrial applications of cyanamide span several sectors, primarily as an intermediate in pharmaceutical synthesis where it serves as a precursor for various active pharmaceutical ingredients. The agricultural industry utilizes cyanamide derivatives for pesticide and herbicide production, while the chemical manufacturing sector employs it in the synthesis of specialized nitrogen compounds. Unlike complex organophosphorus compounds such as pentachloro-lambda5-phosphane, cyanamide offers simpler handling procedures while maintaining high synthetic utility. OYSI provides technical-grade cyanamide to European industrial customers, supporting diverse manufacturing applications with reliable supply chain management and technical support services.
Safety & Classification
Carc. 2; Repr. 2; Acute Tox. 3; Acute Tox. 3; STOT RE 2; Skin Corr. 1; Eye Dam. 1; Skin Sens. 1; ...
GHS Pictograms
HHazard Statements (H-Statements)
Describe the nature and severity of the hazard
Suspected of causing cancer.
Toxic in contact with skin.
Toxic if swallowed.
May cause damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure.
Causes severe skin burns and eye damage.
Causes serious eye damage.
May cause an allergic skin reaction.
Harmful to aquatic life with long lasting effects.
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
Skin Contact
Measures if substance contacts the skin
Eye Contact
Measures if substance gets into the eyes
Ingestion
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 Number | 2923 |
| ADR Class | 8 |
| Packing Group | III |
| Tunnel Code | E |
| Proper Shipping Name | Cyanamid, fest |
| Marine Pollutant | No |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is cyanamide?
Cyanamide is an organic chemical compound with the molecular formula CH2N2 and CAS number 420-04-2. This crystalline substance has a molecular weight of 42.04 g/mol and serves as an important industrial chemical intermediate. Cyanamide is classified as a hazardous substance with multiple danger classifications including carcinogenic, reproductive toxicity, and acute toxicity properties, requiring careful handling and safety precautions in professional applications.
What are the physicochemical properties of cyanamide?
Cyanamide is a white crystalline solid at room temperature with high water solubility. The compound has a molecular formula of CH2N2 and molecular weight of 42.04 g/mol. It exhibits hygroscopic properties, meaning it readily absorbs moisture from air. Cyanamide is thermally unstable and can polymerize under certain conditions. Its high polarity makes it soluble in polar solvents, particularly water and alcohols.
What is cyanamide used for?
Cyanamide serves as a crucial intermediate in pharmaceutical and agrochemical synthesis. It is widely used in the production of pesticides, herbicides, and fungicides for agricultural applications. In pharmaceutical manufacturing, cyanamide acts as a building block for various therapeutic compounds. Additionally, it finds applications in the synthesis of specialty chemicals, including guanidine derivatives and other nitrogen-containing organic compounds used in industrial processes.
How to handle cyanamide safely?
Cyanamide requires strict safety protocols due to its corrosive and toxic nature. Essential personal protective equipment includes chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles, respiratory protection, and protective clothing covering exposed skin. Work should be conducted in well-ventilated areas or under fume hoods. Avoid skin contact, inhalation, and ingestion. Emergency shower and eyewash facilities must be readily accessible. Handle with appropriate tools to minimize direct contact risk.
How to store cyanamide correctly?
Cyanamide must be stored in tightly sealed, corrosion-resistant containers in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from heat sources and incompatible materials. Keep containers away from acids, strong oxidizers, and moisture to prevent degradation or dangerous reactions. Storage areas should be equipped with appropriate spill containment measures and maintained below recommended temperature limits. Access should be restricted to trained personnel only.
What to do in case of contact with cyanamide?
Immediate action is required for cyanamide exposure due to its corrosive properties. For skin contact, remove contaminated clothing and rinse affected area with copious amounts of water for at least 15 minutes. In case of eye contact, flush immediately with water for 15-20 minutes and remove contact lenses if present. If inhaled, move to fresh air immediately. Seek immediate medical attention for all exposure cases and provide safety data sheet to medical personnel.
How to dispose of cyanamide properly?
Cyanamide disposal must comply with local, national, and EU waste regulations as hazardous chemical waste. The substance cannot be disposed of in regular waste streams due to its toxic and corrosive properties. Contact licensed hazardous waste disposal companies for proper treatment and disposal. Small quantities may require neutralization under controlled conditions before disposal. Always consult current waste classification codes and disposal requirements in your jurisdiction.
How to transport cyanamide?
Cyanamide is classified under ADR Class 8 (corrosive substances), Packing Group III for transportation purposes. It requires appropriate hazardous goods packaging, labeling with GHS pictogrammes (GHS08, GHS06, GHS05), and proper shipping documentation. Transport vehicles must comply with ADR regulations for corrosive materials. Drivers require hazardous goods training certification. Emergency response information must accompany shipments for incident management.
Is cyanamide subject to specific regulations?
Cyanamide is subject to comprehensive EU chemical regulations including REACH registration requirements and CLP classification obligations. It carries multiple hazard classifications including Carcinogenic Category 2, Reproductive Toxicity Category 2, and Acute Toxicity Category 3. While not currently listed as a Substance of Very High Concern (SVHC), its hazardous properties require compliance with occupational exposure limits, workplace safety regulations, and environmental protection measures across EU member states.
Where to buy cyanamide in Europe?
OYSI serves as a reliable European distributor for cyanamide, providing high-quality chemical products to industrial and professional customers across Europe. As an established chemical distributor, OYSI ensures compliance with EU regulations including proper documentation, safety data sheets, and regulatory requirements. Contact OYSI directly for availability, technical specifications, packaging options, and delivery arrangements to meet your specific cyanamide requirements in European markets.
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Data Sources
Classification per CLP Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008. Data from ECHA and PubChem.