Nitromethane

Nitromethane (CAS 75-52-5), also known by the common names Nitrocarbol, NSC 428, and Methane nitro-, is a low-molecular-weight nitroalkane solvent. It carries no assigned E-code and is distinct from nitrogen-containing additives used in food or pharmaceutical contexts.

In pharmaceutical synthesis, nitromethane functions as a polar aprotic solvent that stabilises reactive intermediates and improves yields in condensation reactions. In polymer chemistry, it acts as a polymerization initiator by generating free radicals under specific conditions, making it relevant to controlled plastics manufacturing and specialty resin production.

Nitromethane is supplied under REACH compliance for the European market and is available in technical and high-purity grades suited to pharmaceutical, aerospace, and industrial lubricant applications. Standard packaging includes drums and intermediate bulk containers. Procurement teams should confirm grade specifications against applicable internal quality standards prior to ordering.