ACRYLONITRILE

Acrylonitrile
(Vinyl cyanide, 2-propenenitrile, cyanoethylene, ACN)
CAS 107-13-1

H₂ C=CH-C N

Colorless liquid
bp 77 °C, mp -82 °C
Moderately soluble in water (7.3 g/100 mL)

Mild pyridine-like odor at 2 to 22 ppm

1.83 (air = 1.0)

100 mmHg at 22.8 °C

-1 °C

481 °C

LD₅₀ oral (rat) 78 mg/kg

LD₅₀ skin (rabbit) 250 mg/kg

LC₅₀ inhal (rat) 425 ppm (4 h)

PEL (OSHA) 2 ppm

TLV-TWA (ACGIH) 2 ppm--skin

Probable human carcinogen (OSHA "select carcinogen"); moderate acute toxicity; highly flammable.

Acrylonitrile is classified as moderately toxic by acute exposure through oral intake, skin contact, and inhalation. Symptoms of exposure include weakness, lightheadedness, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. Acrylonitrile is severely irritating to the eyes and mildly irritating to the skin; prolonged contact with the skin can lead to burns.

Acrylonitrile is mutagenic in bacterial and mammalian cell cultures and embryotoxic/teratogenic in rats at levels that produce maternal toxicity. Acrylonitrile is carcinogenic in rats and is regulated by OSHA as a carcinogen (29 CFR 1910.1045). Acrylonitrile is listed in IARC Group 2A ("probable human carcinogen") and is classified as a "select carcinogen" under the criteria of the OSHA Laboratory Standard.

Highly flammable liquid (NFPA rating = 3). Vapor forms explosive mixtures with air at concentrations of 3 to 17% (by volume). Hazardous gases produced in fire include hydrogen cyanide, carbon monoxide, and oxides of nitrogen. Carbon dioxide or dry chemical extinguishers should be used to fight acrylonitrile fires.

Violent reaction may occur on exposure to strong acids and bases, amines, strong oxidants, copper, and bromine. Violent polymerization can be initiated by heat, light, strong bases, peroxides, and azo compounds.

Because of its carcinogenicity and flammability, acrylonitrile should be handled using the "basic prudent practices" of Chapter 5.C, supplemented by the additional precautions for work with compounds of high chronic toxicity (Chapter 5.D) and extremely flammable substances (Chapter 5.F). In particular, work with acrylonitrile should be conducted in a fume hood to prevent exposure by inhalation, and splash goggles and impermeable gloves should be worn at all times to prevent eye and skin contact. Acrylonitrile should be used only in areas free of ignition sources. Containers of acrylonitrile should be stored in secondary containers in the dark in areas separate from oxidizers and bases.

In the event of skin contact, immediately wash with soap and water and remove contaminated clothing. In case of eye contact, promptly wash with copious amounts of water for 15 min (lifting upper and lower lids occasionally) and obtain medical attention. If acrylonitrile is ingested, obtain medical attention immediately. If large amounts of this compound are inhaled, move the person to fresh air and seek medical attention at once.

In the event of a spill, remove all ignition sources, soak up the acrylonitrile with a spill pillow or absorbent material, place in an appropriate container, and dispose of properly. Evacuation and cleanup using respiratory protection may be necessary in the event of a large spill or release in a confined area.

Excess acrylonitrile and waste material containing this substance should be placed in an appropriate container, clearly labeled, and handled according to your institution's waste disposal guidelines.

The information in this LCSS has been compiled by a committee of the National Research Council from literature sources and Material Safety Data Sheets and is believed to be accurate as of July 1994. This summary is intended for use by trained laboratory personnel in conjunction with the NRC report Prudent Practices in the Laboratory: Handling and Disposal of Chemicals. This LCSS presents a concise summary of safety information that should be adequate for most laboratory uses of the title substance, but in some cases it may be advisable to consult more comprehensive references. This information should not be used as a guide to the nonlaboratory use of this chemical.

Copyright 1995 National Academy of Sciences. All rights reserved.