4-Chlorobutyronitrile

Chemical properties

Clear Colourless Liquid. 4-Chlorobutyronitrile [628-20-6], 4- chlorobutanenitrile, Cl (CH2 )3CN, Mr 103.55, bp 189 – 191℃ (101.3 kPa), d154 1.0934, n20D 1.4413, is a liquid, miscible with ethanol and diethyl ether; it is immiscible with water.

The Uses of 4-Chlorobutyronitrile

4-Chlorobutyronitrile (cas# 628-20-6) is a compound useful in organic synthesis.

Production Methods

4-Chlorobutyronitrile is readily obtained by reacting 1-bromo-3-chloropropane with sodium cyanide. It is used in the synthesis of the pharmaceuticals buflomedil and buspirone. 4-Chlorobutyronitrile also yields cyclopropanecarbonitrile upon cyclization with base.

General Description

A liquid. Flash point 85°F. Density about 9.7 lb / gal and practically insoluble in water (2 parts/100 parts water). Hence sinks in water. Vapors are heavier than air. Irritates the eyes but not to the skin. Releases hydrogen chloride, hydrogen cyanide, and hydrogen bromide gases when heated or involved in a fire.

Air & Water Reactions

Highly flammable. Practically insoluble in water.

Reactivity Profile

4-Chlorobutyronitrile may attack some forms of plastics [USCG, 1999].

Health Hazard

Chemical is moderately toxic. Inhalation causes irritation of nose and throat. Ingestion causes irritation of mouth and stomach. Contact with eyes causes irritation. Can penetrate the skin on prolonged contact; only slightly irritating.

Fire Hazard

Special Hazards of Combustion Products: Toxic and irritating hydrogen cyanide, hydrogen bromide, and hydrogen chloride may form in fires.