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Acetonitrile (MeCN): Properties, Applications, Safety, and Global Sourcing
Acetonitrile, frequently referred to in industrial circles as methyl cyanide, cyanomethane, or ethyl nitrile, is a cornerstone of modern chemical manufacturing and analytical chemistry. With the chemical formula CH₃CN, this clear, colorless liquid is the simplest organic nitrile.
For professionals in the pharmaceutical, biotechnological, and analytical sectors, Acetonitrile is not just a solvent—it is the gold standard for High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS). At ChemicalsSuppliers.com, we provide the highest purity grades available to ensure your laboratory results remain accurate and your production runs seamless.
Acetonitrile (CAS Number: 75-05-8) is a polar aprotic solvent. It is synthesized primarily as a byproduct of the production of acrylonitrile. Because of its unique physical properties—specifically its low viscosity, low UV cutoff, and excellent miscibility with water—it has become the solvent of choice for complex analytical procedures.
The primary reason for its dominance in chromatography is its UV transparency. In analytical chemistry, scientists use UV detectors to identify compounds. If a solvent absorbs UV light at the same wavelength as the compound being tested, it causes “noise” or interference. Acetonitrile has a very low UV cutoff, meaning it doesn’t interfere with the detection of most organic molecules.
Acetonitrile is a critical reagent in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals. It acts as a solvent in the production of insulin, antibiotics, and various complex active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). Because it is relatively easy to strip away during the drying process, it minimizes trace solvent contamination in final medicinal products.
In HPLC and LC-MS, Acetonitrile is used as the organic modifier in the mobile phase. Its ability to create specific polarities allows for the separation of proteins, peptides, and small molecules with high resolution.
With the global push toward electric vehicles (EVs), Acetonitrile is finding a niche in high-voltage lithium-ion batteries. It serves as a solvent for electrolytes, offering high conductivity and a wide electrochemical window.
Acetonitrile is the preferred solvent for the phosphoramidite method of oligonucleotide synthesis. Researchers use it to ensure the efficient coupling of nucleosides to form short strings of DNA or RNA used in genetic research and diagnostic kits.
As with any nitrile, safety is paramount. Acetonitrile is volatile and can be absorbed through the skin, inhaled, or ingested.
For detailed safety information, refer to the PubChem entry on Acetonitrile.
At ChemicalsSuppliers.com, we bridge the gap between global manufacturers and local laboratory/industrial needs. We guarantee high-purity (Gradient Grade) Acetonitrile for your most sensitive analytical work.
Below is a list of commonly sought chemical reagents. You can find these, along with their current market prices (subject to fluctuation), at ChemicalsSuppliers.com.
| No. | Chemical Name | CAS Number | Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Methanol | 67-56-1 | Solvent/HPLC |
| 2 | Ethanol (Absolute) | 64-17-5 | Solvent/Synthesis |
| 3 | Acetone | 67-64-1 | Cleaning/Synthesis |
| 4 | Dimethyl Sulfoxide (DMSO) | 67-68-5 | Cryopreservation |
| 5 | Tetrahydrofuran (THF) | 109-99-9 | Polymer/HPLC |
| 6 | N,N-Dimethylformamide (DMF) | 68-12-2 | Synthesis |
| 7 | Dichloromethane (DCM) | 75-09-2 | Extraction |
| 8 | Hexane | 110-54-3 | Chromatography |
| 9 | Isopropanol (IPA) | 67-63-0 | Degreasing |
| 10 | Ethyl Acetate | 141-78-6 | Extraction |
| … | [Full list continues on our website] | … | … |
(Note: Pricing for these chemicals changes daily based on global crude oil markets and regional demand. Visit our Pricing Portal for the latest quotes.)
The global market for Acetonitrile is heavily influenced by the rise of the pharmaceutical industry in the APAC region (India, China) and the demand for personalized medicine in the West (Europe, USA). Supply chain volatility is common. Partnering with a dedicated supplier like ChemicalsSuppliers.com ensures you have a consistent supply even during market shortages.
When you purchase through us, every bottle of Acetonitrile is accompanied by a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) detailing:
To serve our global audience, we recognize the importance of regional nomenclature. When searching for our products, you may use the following translations:
Acetonitrile is an indispensable tool in the advancement of modern science. From the development of life-saving drugs to the calibration of precision instruments, its role is vital. By ensuring you source your chemicals from trusted platforms like ChemicalsSuppliers.com, you guarantee the integrity of your research and the quality of your industrial production.
Visit ChemicalsSuppliers.com today to browse our full inventory of solvents, reagents, and specialty chemicals. Contact our sales team for bulk inquiries and custom logistics solutions worldwide.
Disclaimer: All chemical handling should be performed by trained professionals in accordance with local safety regulations. Always verify the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) before use. ChemicalsSuppliers.com assumes no responsibility for improper use or handling of products sold.
