Methyl cyanoformate
Methyl cyanoformate (CAS: 17640-15-2), with the linear formula NCCO2CH3 and a molecular weight of 85.06 g/mol, is a versatile organic building block. It is primarily utilised in various chemical syntheses, including enantioselective synthesis, the regioselective formation of beta-keto esters, and peroxide-initiated free-radical cyanation reactions. This compound is an ester and a carbonyl compound, valuable for its reactivity in organic synthesis.

Enantioselective Synthesis
Methyl cyanoformate has been employed in the enantioselective synthesis of pure S-(+)-2β-carboalkoxy-3α-[bis(4-fluorophenyl)methoxy]tropanes, contributing to the development of stereochemically defined molecules.
Regioselective Synthesis of Beta-Keto Esters
It serves as a reagent in the regioselective synthesis of beta-keto esters through the C-acylation of lithium enolates, a key transformation in organic chemistry.
Free-Radical Chain Cyanation
The compound is utilised in peroxide-initiated free-radical chain cyanation reactions involving various hydrocarbons, enabling the introduction of cyano groups.
C-Acylation of Enolates
Methyl cyanoformate is a participant in the C-acylation of enolates, a fundamental reaction for carbon-carbon bond formation in organic synthesis.
| Molecular weight | 85.06 |
|---|---|
| Linear formula | NCCO2CH3 |
| Assay | 99% |
| Grade | purum |
| Boiling point | 100-101 °C(lit.) |
| Density | 1.072 g/mL at 25 °C(lit.) |
| Refractive index | n20/D 1.374(lit.) |
| Application | Methyl cyanoformate has been used in:• enantioselective synthesis of series of pure S-(+)-2β-carboalkoxy-3α-[bis(4-fluorophenyl)methoxy]tropanes1• regioselective synthesis of β-keto esters via C-acylation of lithium enolates2• peroxide-initiated free-radical chain cyanation of several hydrocarbons3• the C-acylation of enolates4 |


Hazard statements
- H226Flammable liquid and vapour
- H300Fatal if swallowed
- H310Fatal in contact with skin
- H315Causes skin irritation
- H319Causes serious eye irritation
- H330Fatal if inhaled
Precautionary statements
- P260Do not breathe dust, fume, gas, mist, vapours or spray
- P264Wash thoroughly after handling
- P280Wear protective gloves, clothing and eye/face protection
- P284Wear respiratory protection
- P302IF ON SKIN
- 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 | 26 °C / 78.8 °F |
| Transport (UN / ADR) | UN 3275 3(6.1) / PGII |
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 3 |
| Hazard codes (EU) | T+ |
| Risk statements (R) | 10-26/27/28-36/38 |
| Safety statements (S) | 26-28-36/37-45 |
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 are the primary uses of Methyl cyanoformate?
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Methyl cyanoformate is used in enantioselective synthesis, regioselective synthesis of beta-keto esters, peroxide-initiated free-radical chain cyanation, and the C-acylation of enolates.
What is the CAS number and chemical formula for Methyl cyanoformate?
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The CAS number is 17640-15-2 and the linear chemical formula is NCCO2CH3.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?
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Tech Serve Solutions supplies Methyl cyanoformate at a purum grade with an assay of 99%. We do not represent this product as USP, BP, or EP grade.
What are the main safety hazards associated with Methyl cyanoformate?
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Methyl cyanoformate is a highly flammable liquid and vapour (H226). It is acutely toxic if swallowed (H300), in contact with skin (H310), and if inhaled (H330). It also causes skin irritation (H315) and serious eye irritation (H319). Handle with extreme caution using appropriate personal protective equipment.
Is Methyl cyanoformate exported or shipped internationally?
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Yes, Tech Serve Solutions is a specialist global supplier and exporter of fine chemicals, including Methyl cyanoformate.
How can I request a quote or sample for Methyl cyanoformate?
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To request a quote or sample, please contact our sales department through the website or via phone.
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