Bromoacetonitrile-A Comprehensive Overview

Bromoacetonitrile – General Information

Bromoacetonitrile is a highly reactive organobromine compound widely used in organic synthesis. Its dual functional groups, bromine, and nitrile, make it an essential building block in the production of more complex molecules, especially in the pharmaceutical and agrochemical industries. Due to its reactive nature, Bromoacetonitrile is particularly useful in nucleophilic substitution reactions and serves as an intermediate in the synthesis of a variety of organic compounds.

Chemical Properties

• Molecular Formula : C2H2BrN

• Molecular Weight : 118.95 g/mol

• CAS Number : 590-17-0

• Appearance : Colorless to pale yellow liquid

• Boiling Point : 108°C

• Density : 1.66 g/cm³

• Solubility : Slightly soluble in water; miscible with organic solvents like ethanol, ether, and chloroform

Bromoacetonitrile’s chemical properties make it ideal for various applications, particularly where a reactive bromine atom is needed for subsequent chemical transformations.

Applications:

Bromoacetonitrile is utilized in several key areas:

1. Organic Synthesis: It serves as a versatile reagent in the preparation of more complex organic molecules, especially where brominated intermediates are required.
   
2. Pharmaceutical Manufacturing: Bromoacetonitrile is used in the synthesis of pharmaceutical compounds, where it contributes to the creation of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) through various chemical reactions.
   
3. Agrochemical Production: It is employed in the synthesis of agrochemicals, including pesticides and herbicides, due to its ability to introduce functional groups that enhance biological activity.
   
4. Specialty Chemicals: Bromoacetonitrile is also used in the production of specialty chemicals where precise control over chemical reactivity is necessary.
   

Synthesis and Reactivity

bromoacetonitrile can be synthesized through the bromination of acetonitrile. Its reactivity is primarily due to the electron-withdrawing nitrile group, which makes the carbon atom in the molecule highly electrophilic. This characteristic allows it to undergo various nucleophilic substitution reactions, making it a valuable intermediate in the formation of more complex chemical structures.

Safety and Handling

Bromoacetonitrile is a hazardous chemical that requires careful handling. It should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from sources of ignition and incompatible materials. Personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves, safety goggles, and lab coats, should be worn when handling the compound. Work should be conducted in a well-ventilated area, preferably under a fume hood, to prevent inhalation of vapors.

Safety Data

Hazard Classifications

1. Acute Toxicity: Harmful if swallowed, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin.
   
2. Irritant:
   Causes severe irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory system.
   
3. Environmental Hazard: Potentially harmful to aquatic life.
   

Pictograms

1. (Toxic)
   
2. (Irritant)

Hazard Statements

1. H301: Toxic if swallowed.
2. H311: Toxic in contact with skin.
3. H331: Toxic if inhaled.
4. H319: Causes serious eye irritation.
5. H331: May cause respiratory irritation.
   

Precautionary Statements

1. P280: Wear protective gloves, protective clothing, and eye protectio
2. P261: Avoid breathing vapors or mis
3. P301+P310:If swallowed, immediately call a poison center or docto
4. P305+P351+P338:If in eyes, rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses if present and easy to do. Continue rinsin

Research and Studies

Bromoacetonitrile has been extensively studied in the context of organic chemistry, particularly for its role in:

1. Nucleophilic Substitution Reactions: Research has focused on its reactivity and utility in forming carbon-nitrogen and carbon-carbon bonds.
2. Pharmaceutical Development: Studies have explored its use as a precursor in the synthesis of drugs, where it helps introduce functional groups essential for biological activity.
3. Environmental Impact:Investigations into the degradation and toxicity of Bromoacetonitrile in the environment, particularly its effects on aquatic organisms.

These studies underscore the compound’s importance in modern chemical synthesis, particularly in the development of pharmaceuticals and other biologically active molecules.

Conclusion:

Bromoacetonitrile is a crucial reagent in organic chemistry, offering a balance of reactivity and versatility that makes it valuable in various industries. From pharmaceutical synthesis to specialty chemical production, its applications are broad and significant. However, due to its hazardous nature, proper safety precautions are essential when handling this compound. Understanding its properties, applications, and safety requirements ensures its effective and safe use in the laboratory and industrial settings.

FAQS

1.What are the hazards of Bromoacetonitrile?

⦁H301 (100%): Toxic if swallowed [Danger Acute toxicity, oral]
⦁H311 (98.08%): Toxic in contact with skin [Danger Acute toxicity, dermal]
⦁H314 (11.54%):Causes severe skin burns and eye damage [Danger Skin corrosion/irritation]

2.What are the main dangers of biohazards?

Biological agents are organisms or toxins that can kill or harm people, livestock and crops. A biological attack is when someone discharges germs or other biological materials that can make you sick. You can either breathe these agents in, eat them to make you sick or they get into the body through a cut in the skin

3.What are the 4 types of biohazards?

• viruses, such as Coronavirus (COVID-19) and Japanese encephalitis.
• toxins from biological sources.
• spores.
• fungi.
• pathogenic micro-organisms.
• bio-active substances.