Physical Properties
- Appearance: Colorless to pale yellow liquid.
- Density: 0.932 g/cm³ at 25°C.
- Melting Point: -19°C.
- Boiling Point: 95°C (decomposes at 120°C).
- Flash Point: 63°C.
- Refractive Index: 1.3992 at 20°C.
- Solubility: Soluble in water, ethanol, ether, and other organic solvents; insoluble in petroleum ether and carbon disulfide.
Chemical Properties
- Reactivity: Contains active hydroxyl and nitrile groups, making it highly reactive. It can undergo hydrolysis, dehydration, esterification, and other reactions.
- Decomposition: Decomposes to release hydrogen cyanide and acetone when heated.
- Toxicity: Highly toxic; inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact can cause poisoning.
Uses
- Main Applications:
- Intermediate for the production of methyl methacrylate (used in manufacturing acrylic glass).
- Raw material for azobisisobutyronitrile (a radical initiator).
- Used in the synthesis of pesticides, pharmaceuticals, and other fine chemicals.
- Other Uses:
- Metal separation and refining agent.
- Intermediate for the synthesis of other organic compounds.
Safety and Hazards
- Health Risks: Highly toxic; acute toxicity (LD₅₀) in mice is 15 mg/kg (oral). Inhalation and skin contact can cause severe poisoning.
- Storage: Store in a cool, dry place, away from heat and moisture. Handle with protective equipment.
- Transportation: UN Number 1541; classified as a highly toxic substance.