Acrylonitrile

Acrylonitrile (CAS 107-13-1), also known as vinyl cyanide or by the trade names Ventox and Fumigrain, is a reactive monomer used as a foundational building block in large-scale polymer manufacturing.

Where is Acrylonitrile used?

• Textiles: polymerized into acrylic fibers for apparel and carpeting, and industrial fabrics
• Rubber and tires: co-monomer in nitrile butadiene rubber (NBR) for fuel-resistant hoses, seals and gaskets
• Plastics: key co-monomer in ABS and SAN resins, supplying rigidity and chemical resistance to molded components and packaging
• Historically, Ventox and Fumigrain formulations were applied as grain and commodity fumigants for pest control in stored agricultural products.
• Chemical intermediate in the production of acrylamide and adiponitrile.
• Used in the footwear industry for the manufacture of adhesives, sealants and sponge materials.

Good to know: Stabilized liquid typically inhibited with monomethyl ether of hydroquinone (MEHQ); the inhibitor prevents premature polymerization during storage and transport.

Formulation notes

• Contact with strong acids or heating to decomposition produces poisonous hydrogen cyanide gas.

Typical specification

• Typically contains a hydroquinone ether as polymerization inhibitor (hydroquinone monomethyl or monoethyl ether) at 35 to 50 ppm.
• Vapor is heavier than air.
• Moderately soluble in water; soluble in most organic solvents.

Regulatory status

• Classified as H225, a highly flammable liquid and vapour.
• Legally classified as Carc. 1B under the EU CLP Regulation.
• Assigned UN number 1093.
• Shall not be placed on the market or used by the general public when its concentration in a substance or mixture is equal to or above the relevant specific or generic concentration limit.

Storage, packaging and handling

• Lower explosive limit (LEL) of 30000 ppm.
• Unless inhibited, usually with methylhydroquinone, may polymerize spontaneously.

Frequently asked questions about Acrylonitrile

Which polymer derived from acrylonitrile is used to obtain carbon fiber?

Polyacrylonitrile is the polymer from which carbon fiber is obtained.

What statement must appear on packages of acrylonitrile or mixtures containing it before they are placed on the market?

Packages must bear the statement 'Reserved for professional users only' before being placed on the market.

How must non-stabilised acrylonitrile be labelled when placed on the market?

If placed on the market in non-stabilised form, the supplier must state the substance name followed by 'non stabilisée' on the label (Note D).

Technical content is compiled and updated by the SoleChem product team from public technical sources; the certificate of analysis (COA) governs product-specific specifications.