Benzyl cyanide
Benzyl cyanide (CAS: 140-29-4; Formula: C6H5CH2CN; MW: 117.15 g/mol) is a clear, colourless to pale yellow liquid. It serves as a crucial intermediate in organic synthesis, particularly for pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. This nitrile compound is a versatile building block, enabling the creation of more complex molecules due to the reactivity of its benzylic position and nitrile group. TSS offers Benzyl cyanide for research and industrial applications.
- IUPAC
- Phenylacetonitrile
- Synonyms
- Phenylacetonitrile

Pharmaceutical Intermediate
Benzyl cyanide is used in the synthesis of various pharmaceutical compounds. Its structure allows for modification to create active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and their precursors.
Agrochemical Synthesis
It acts as a building block for certain pesticides and herbicides. The molecule's reactivity is leveraged to construct complex agrochemical structures.
Organic Synthesis Reagent
As a versatile organic building block, Benzyl cyanide is employed in a range of chemical transformations. It is valuable for introducing the benzyl or phenylacetyl group into other molecules.
Nitrogen Compound Precursor
This compound is a source of nitrogen in various synthetic pathways. It can be converted into amines, amides, and other nitrogen-containing functional groups.
| Molecular weight | 117.15 |
|---|---|
| Linear formula | C6H5CH2CN |
| Assay | 98% |
| Boiling point | 233-234 °C(lit.) |
| Density | 1.015 g/mL at 25 °C(lit.) |
| Refractive index | n20/D 1.523(lit.) |
| Vapour pressure | 0.1 mmHg (20 °C) |
| Melting point | −24 °C(lit.) |

Hazard statements
- H301Toxic if swallowed
- H330Fatal if inhaled
Precautionary statements
- P260Do not breathe dust, fume, gas, mist, vapours or spray
- P280Wear protective gloves, clothing and eye/face protection
- P284Wear respiratory protection
- P301IF SWALLOWED
- P310Immediately call a POISON CENTER or doctor
| Protective equipment | Eyeshields, Faceshields, full-face respirator (US), Gloves, multi-purpose combination respirator cartridge (US), type ABEK (EN14387) respirator filter |
|---|---|
| Flash point | 102 °C / 215.6 °F |
| Transport (UN / ADR) | UN 2470 6.1 / PGIII |
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 3 |
| Hazard codes (EU) | T+ |
| Risk statements (R) | 22-24-26 |
| Safety statements (S) | 28-36/37-45 |
Hazard information is provided for guidance. Always consult the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS), available on request, before handling.
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 Benzyl cyanide used for?
+
Benzyl cyanide is primarily used as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals, and as a versatile building block in general organic synthesis.
What is the CAS number and formula for Benzyl cyanide?
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The CAS number is 140-29-4 and the molecular formula is C6H5CH2CN.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?
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Tech Serve Solutions supplies Benzyl cyanide with a minimum assay of 98%. TSS does not represent this product as USP, BP, EP, or other pharmacopoeial grades.
What are the main hazards associated with Benzyl cyanide?
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Benzyl cyanide is acutely toxic if swallowed, in contact with skin, or if inhaled (GHS06, Danger, H301 + H311-H330). Appropriate personal protective equipment, including eye protection, gloves, and respiratory protection, must be used when handling.
How is Benzyl cyanide packed, shipped, and exported?
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Benzyl cyanide is packed in compliance with international regulations for hazardous materials. TSS exports this chemical globally, adhering to all relevant shipping and customs requirements.
How can I request a quote or sample for Benzyl cyanide?
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To request a quote or sample, please contact our sales department through the TSS website or by phone, referencing the product name and CAS number.
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