Trichloroacetonitrile

Trichloroacetonitrile

Chemical Name: Trichloroacetonitrile
Synonyms: TCAN; Trichloromethyl cyanide
CAS Number: 545-06-2
Molecular Formula: C₂Cl₃N
Molecular Weight: 144.39 g/mol

Physical and Chemical Properties

Appearance: Colorless to pale yellow liquidOdor: Pungent, lachrymatory (tear-inducing)Melting Point: -42 °C (-44 °F)Boiling Point: 85-86 °C (185-187 °F)Density: 1.44 g/cm³ (at 20 °C)Refractive Index: 1.440 (at 20 °C)Vapor Pressure: 60 mmHg (at 20 °C)Solubility:Slightly soluble in water (hydrolyzes slowly)Miscible with organic solvents (ethanol, ether, acetone)

Chemical Properties

Reactivity:Reacts violently with strong oxidizers, acids, and basesReleases toxic gases (HCl, HCN, CO, CO₂) when heatedHydrolyzes in water to form chloroform and cyanide compoundsStability: Stable when dry but moisture-sensitive

Hazard and Safety Information (GHS)

Hazard Symbols:T+ (Very toxic)C (Corrosive)Xi (Irritant)Hazard Statements:H300: Fatal if swallowedH310: Fatal in contact with skinH330: Fatal if inhaledH314: Causes severe skin burns and eye damageH335: May cause respiratory irritationPrecautionary Measures:P260: Do not breathe dust/fume/gas/mistP264: Wash skin thoroughly after handlingP284: Use respiratory protectionP301+P310: IF SWALLOWED: Immediately call poison center

Storage & Handling

Store in airtight containers under inert gas (N₂/Ar)Keep in cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from lightUse chemical-resistant gloves (Viton®/butyl rubber) and full-face respiratorHandle only in fume hood with splash protection

Applications

Organic synthesis (trichloromethylation reagent)Pharmaceutical intermediateFormer use as a pesticide (now restricted)

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