Phenylacetonitrile
CAS Number
140-29-4
EC Number
205-410-5
Industries: Pharma & Healthcare
What is Phenylacetonitrile?
Phenylacetonitrile (CAS 140-29-4), also known as benzyl cyanide, is a key building block in pharmaceutical and fine chemical synthesis.
Where is Phenylacetonitrile used?
- Pharmaceutical manufacturing: synthesis of active ingredients including analgesics, antihistamines, and cardiovascular compounds
- Agrochemicals: precursor in the synthesis of certain insecticides and herbicides for crop protection
- Flavor and fragrance: starting material for phenylacetic acid derivatives
- It also functions as a specialty solvent in select chemical processes.
Good to know: Buyers should confirm purity levels and residual impurity profiles against their internal quality standards, particularly when sourcing for regulated manufacturing environments.
Commercial specifications
- Higher-purity specifications offered for pharmaceutical intermediate use
- Standard packaging options include drum and IBC containers
Other Names (Synonyms)
benzyl nitrile|benzyl cyanide|alpha-tolunitrile|alpha-cyanotoluene|2-phenylacetonitrile|(cyanomethyl)benzene|Acetonitrile, phenyl-|ω-Cyanotoluene
How is Phenylacetonitrile classified and handled safely? Learn More
Danger
GHS06· Toxic GHS07· Irritant GHS08· Health Hazard
Hazard Statements
H301 Toxic if swallowed [Danger Acute toxicity, oral]
H311 Toxic in contact with skin [Danger Acute toxicity, dermal]
H319 Causes serious eye irritation [Warning Serious eye damage/eye irritation]
H330 Fatal if inhaled [Danger Acute toxicity, inhalation]
H372 Causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure [Danger Specific target organ toxicity, repeated exposure]