Acetonitrile
Acetonitrile (CAS: 75-05-8, Formula: CH3CN, Molar Mass: 41.05) is a versatile polar aprotic solvent widely used in chemical synthesis and analytical chemistry. Its high purity and specific properties make it indispensable for techniques like High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS). Acetonitrile is also a crucial reagent in the pharmaceutical industry for drug development and manufacturing processes.
- IUPAC
- ACN,Methyl cyanide
- Synonyms
- ACNMethyl cyanideEthanenitrile
High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC)
Acetonitrile is a primary mobile phase component in HPLC, enabling efficient separation of complex mixtures due to its polarity and UV transparency. Its low viscosity and UV cut-off at 195 nm are ideal for sensitive detection methods.
Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS)
Its suitability for LC-MS applications is highlighted by low baseline drift and UV absorption, ensuring minimal interference and high-quality analytical results in pharmaceutical research and environmental testing.
Chemical Synthesis
As a polar aprotic solvent, Acetonitrile facilitates a range of organic reactions, acting as a reaction medium or reactant in various synthetic pathways.
Pharmaceutical Intermediates
Acetonitrile is employed in the synthesis and purification of pharmaceutical intermediates, contributing to the efficient production of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs).
| Molecular weight | 41.05 |
|---|---|
| Linear formula | CH3CN |
| Assay | ≥99.9% |
| Boiling point | 81-82 °C(lit.) |
| Density | 0.786 g/mL at 25 °C(lit.) |
| Refractive index | n/D 1.342-1.346n20/D 1.344(lit.) |
| Concentration | ~20% in H2O |
| Melting point | −48 °C(lit.) |
| Vapour pressure | 72.8 mmHg (20 °C) |
| Vapour density | 1.41 (vs air) |
| Autoignition temp | 973 °F |
| Storage temperature | room temp |
| Impurities tested | ≤30 ppm water content (Karl Fischer) |
| Suitability | in accordance for suitability for LC-MS |
Hazard statements
- H225Highly flammable liquid and vapour
- H302Harmful if swallowed
- H319Causes serious eye irritation
Precautionary statements
- P210Keep away from heat, sparks and open flames. No smoking
- P280Wear protective gloves, clothing and eye/face protection
- P305IF IN EYES
| Protective equipment | Eyeshields, Faceshields, full-face respirator (US), Gloves, multi-purpose combination respirator cartridge (US), type ABEK (EN14387) respirator filter |
|---|---|
| Flash point | 2 °C / 35.6 °F |
| Transport (UN / ADR) | UN 1648 3 / PGII |
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 2 |
| Hazard codes (EU) | F,Xn |
| Risk statements (R) | 11-20/21/22-36 |
| Safety statements (S) | 16-36/37 |
Hazard information is provided for guidance. Always consult the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS), available on request, before handling.
| Shelf Life | ± limited shelf life, expiry date on the label |
|---|---|
| Uv Absorption | λ: 195 nm Amax: ≤0.12λ: 200 nm Amax: ≤0.032λ: 230 nm Amax: ≤0.0044λ: 235 nm Amax: ≤0.0044λ: 250 nm Amax: ≤0.0044λ: 400 nm Amax: ≤0.0044 |
| Absorption | HPLC-gradient/210 nm ≤3 mAUHPLC-gradient/254 nm ≤0.5 mAU |
| Transmittance | 195 nm, ≥80%200 nm, ≥95%230 nm, 99% |
| Measuring Range | ≤15 mAU baseline drift, (210 nm) |
Documentation
Every batch ships with a Certificate of Analysis covering assay, identity and purity; the grade is confirmed against your enquiry. Safety Data Sheets and technical data sheets are available on request.
Supply & logistics
Samples for technical evaluation; bulk MOQ by grade and packaging. In-stock material ships in 7–10 working days, worldwide, with full export documentation.
What is Acetonitrile used for?
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Acetonitrile is primarily used as a polar aprotic solvent in HPLC and LC-MS, for chemical synthesis, and in the manufacturing of pharmaceutical intermediates.
What is the CAS number and formula for Acetonitrile?
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The CAS number is 75-05-8 and the molecular formula is CH3CN.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?
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Tech Serve Solutions supplies Acetonitrile with an assay of ≥99.9% and ≤30 ppm water content. This product is supplied for laboratory and industrial use and is not represented as USP, BP, EP, or any other pharmacopoeia grade.
How should Acetonitrile be handled safely?
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Acetonitrile is highly flammable (Flash Point 2 °C) and harmful if swallowed, inhaled, or in contact with skin. Handle with appropriate personal protective equipment, including eyeshields, gloves, and a suitable respirator, in a well-ventilated area away from ignition sources. Refer to the Safety Data Sheet for full details.
Is Acetonitrile a controlled substance?
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Acetonitrile is not listed as a controlled substance in major international regulations.
How is Acetonitrile packed and shipped?
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Acetonitrile is packed in accordance with UN 1648 regulations for flammable liquids and is available for export globally by Tech Serve Solutions.
How can I request a sample or quote for Acetonitrile?
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Please contact our sales team via the website to request a sample or a personalised quotation for Acetonitrile.
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