Malononitrile

HCID 8010CAS 109-77-3

Basic information

Standard SMILES
N#CCC#N
InChIKey
CUONGYYJJVDODC-UHFFFAOYSA-N
Molecular formula
C3H2N2
Average molar mass
66.06 g/mol
Monoisotopic mass
66.02179807

Names & identifiers

Preferred name
Malononitrile
IUPAC
propanedinitrile
English name
Malononitrile
Molecular formula
C3H2N2
Molecular weight
66.06

Names & synonyms

MALONONITRILEPropanedinitrile109-77-3DicyanomethaneMalonic dinitrileMethylene cyanideCyanoacetonitrileMalonodinitrileDicyanmethaneMalonic acid dinitrileMethylenedinitrileMethane, dicyano-
Show more names
MALONITRILEmalonicCH2(CN)2MDN
MethylenecyanidePropanedinitriteNitril kyseliny malonoveDwumetylosulfotlenkuRCRA waste number U149USAF A-4600USAF KF-19Malonsaeuredinitril

Database identifiers

CAS
109-77-3
PubChem CID
8010
DTXSID
DTXSID6021907
ChEMBL
CHEMBL3187514
ChEBI
CHEBI:33186
UNII
EBL1KKS93J
EC Number
203-703-2
Nikkaji
J2.439B

Properties

Computed structural properties

XLogP
-0.5
Topological polar surface area
47.6 Ų
Hydrogen bond donors
0
Hydrogen bond acceptors
2
Rotatable bonds
0
Heavy atoms
5

Experimental & physicochemical properties

LogP · 2 items

log Kow = -0.60

-0.6

Density · 5 items

1.191 at 68 °F (EPA, 1998) - Denser than water; will sink

1.1910 @ 20 °C/4 °C

1.19 g/cm³

1.049 @ 34°C

1.19

Color/Form · 2 items

Colorless solid

White powder or colorless crystals

Solubility · 6 items

greater than or equal to 100 mg/mL at 72.5 °F (NTP, 1992)

SOL IN ACETIC ACID, CHLOROFORM

Soluble in acetone and benzene

In water, 1.33X10+5 mg/l @ 25 °C

In ethanol, 0.40 g/ml @ 25 °C; in ether, 0.20 g/ml @ 25 °C

Solubility in water, g/100ml at 20 °C: 13.3 (moderate)

Flash Point · 5 items

266 °F (EPA, 1998)

266 °F

266 °F (OPEN CUP)

112 °C o.c.

(oc) 266 °F

Boiling Point · 5 items

424 to 426 °F at 760 mmHg (EPA, 1998)

218-219 °C @ 760 mm Hg

218-220 °C

220 °C @760 [mm Hg]

426 °F

Physicochemical properties

Melting point
30 · 30-32 °C (lit.)
Boiling point
220 °C · 220 °C (lit.)
Density
1.049 g/mL · 1.049 g/mL at 25 °C (lit.)
vapor pressure
1 hPa · 1 hPa (50 °C)
refractive index
1.415 · 1.4150
Flash point
234 °F · 234 °F

Safety & regulation

GHS classification

GHS Classification · 6 items

Danger

H301: Toxic if swallowed [Danger Acute toxicity, oral];H311: Toxic in contact with skin [Danger Acute toxicity, dermal];H331: Toxic if inhaled [Danger Acute toxicity, inhalation];H400: Very toxic to aquatic life [Warning Hazardous to the aquatic environment, acute hazard];H410: Very toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects [Warning Hazardous to the aquatic environment, long-term hazard]

P261, P262, P264, P270, P271, P273, P280, P301+P316, P302+P352, P304+P340, P316, P321, P330, P361+P364, P391, P403+P233, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Danger

Hazard information

Regulatory Information · 5 items

Chemical: Propanedinitrile

Propanedinitrile is listed on the EPA's Chemical Data Reporting (CDR) system. Manufacturers and importers of Propanedinitrile are required to report information about their production and use of this chemical to the EPA under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). (40 eCFR Part 711)

Status: Active Update: 21-01-2020 https://echa.europa.eu/registration-dossier/-/registered-dossier/1151;Status: Active Update: 18-11-2013 https://echa.europa.eu/registration-dossier/-/registered-dossier/8340

Malononitrile: Does not have an individual approval but may be used under an appropriate group standard

The New Jersey Worker and Community Right to Know Act requires public and private employers to provide information about hazardous substances at their workplaces. (N.J.S.A. 34:5A-1 et. seq.)

DOT LabelPoison
Fire Hazards · 3 items

When heated to decomposition, malononitrile emits highly toxic fumes (cyanide). May polymerize violently on prolonged heating. Avoid heat. Hazardous polymerization may occur, at prolonged heating at 266F or contact with strong bases at lower temperatures. (EPA, 1998)

· Combustible material: may burn but does not ignite readily.;· When heated, vapors may form explosive mixtures with air: indoors, outdoors and sewers explosion hazards.;· Those substances designated with a (P) may polymerize explosively when heated or involved in a fire.;· Corrosives in contact with metals may evolve flammable hydrogen gas.;· Containers may explode when heated.;· Runoff may pollute waterways.;· Substance may be transported in a molten form.

Combustible. Risk of fire and explosion. See Chemical Dangers.

Fire PotentialCombustible when exposed to heat or flame.
Health Hazards · 2 items

Metabolized by body to cyanide and thiocyanate; effects of inhalation of toxic fumes will be related to cyanide. Causes brain and heart damage related to lack of cellular oxygen. It is classified as extremely toxic. Probable oral lethal dose for humans is 5-50 mg/kg, or between 7 drops and 1 teaspoonful, for a 70 kg (150 lb.) person. (EPA, 1998)

· TOXIC and/or CORROSIVE; inhalation, ingestion or skin contact with material may cause severe injury or death.;· Methyl bromoacetate (UN2643) is an eye irritant/lachrymator (causes flow of tears).;· Contact with molten substance may cause severe burns to skin and eyes.;· Avoid any skin contact.;· Fire may produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases.;· Runoff from fire control or dilution water may be corrosive and/or toxic and cause environmental contamination.

Hazards Summary · 1 item

The toxicity of this compound is due to liver metabolism and the release of cyanide. Animals show liver injury after subcutaneous doses. [HSDB] A severe irritant of the skin and eyes; Violent polymerization may occur if heated above 266 deg F or contacts strong bases at lower temperatures; [CAMEO] See NITRILES.

Safety & protection

Fire Fighting · 2 items

Move container from fire area if you can do it without risk. Wear positive pressure breathing apparatus and special protective clothing.;Use dry chemical, carbon dioxide, water spray, fog, or foam. (EPA, 1998)

Use water spray, dry powder, foam, carbon dioxide.

First Aid Measures · 4 items

Fresh air, rest. Artificial respiration may be needed. Refer for medical attention. Half-upright position.

Remove contaminated clothes. Rinse and then wash skin with water and soap. Refer for medical attention .

First rinse with plenty of water for several minutes (remove contact lenses if easily possible), then refer for medical attention.

Rinse mouth. Give a slurry of activated charcoal in water to drink. Induce vomiting (ONLY IN CONSCIOUS PERSONS!). Give one or two glasses of water to drink. Refer for medical attention .

Accidental Release Measures · 2 items

· CALL 911. Then call emergency response telephone number on shipping paper. If shipping paper not available or no answer, refer to appropriate telephone number listed on the inside back cover.;· Keep unauthorized personnel away.;· Stay upwind, uphill and/or upstream.;· Ventilate closed spaces before entering, but only if properly trained and equipped.

· ELIMINATE all ignition sources (no smoking, flares, sparks or flames) from immediate area.;· Do not touch damaged containers or spilled material unless wearing appropriate protective clothing.;· Stop leak if you can do it without risk.;· Prevent entry into waterways, sewers, basements or confined areas.;· Absorb or cover with dry earth, sand or other non-combustible material and transfer to containers.;· DO NOT GET WATER INSIDE CONTAINERS.

First Aid · 3 items

Warning: Malononitrile may be fatal if inhaled, swallowed, or absorbed through skin or mucous membranes. Caution is advised.;Signs and Symptoms of Malononitrile Exposure: Signs and symptoms of acute exposure to malononitrile may include hypertension (high blood pressure) and tachycardia (rapid heart rate), followed by hypotension (low blood pressure) and bradycardia (slow heart rate). Cherry-red or bloody mucous membranes may be noted. Cardiac arrhythmias and other cardiac abnormalities are common. Cyanosis (blue tint to the skin and mucous membranes) may be observed. Other symptoms include anxiety, confusion, tightness in the chest, and involuntary urination and defecation. Headache, vertigo (dizziness), agitation, and giddiness may be followed by combative behavior, convulsions, paralysis, protruding eyeballs, dilated and unreactive pupils, unconsciousness and coma. Tachypnea (rapid, shallow respirations) or hyperpnea (rapid, deep respirations) may be followed by respiratory depression or arrest. Lung hemorrhage and pulmonary edema may also occur. Malononitrile is irritating to the skin, eyes, and mucous membranes. Lacrimation (tearing) and a burning sensation of the mouth and throat are common. Salivation, nausea, and vomiting may also occur.;Emergency Life-Support Procedures: Acute exposure to malononitrile exposure may require decontamination and life support for the victims. Emergency personnel should wear protective clothing appropriate to the type and degree of contamination. Air-purifying or supplied-air respiratory equipment should also be worn, as necessary. Rescue vehicles should carry supplies such as plastic sheeting and disposable plastic bags to assist in preventing spread of contamination.;Inhalation Exposure:;1. Move victims to fresh air. Emergency personnel should avoid self-exposure to malononitrile.;2. Evaluate vital signs including pulse and respiratory rate, and note any trauma. If no pulse is detected, provide CPR. If not breathing, provide artificial respiration. IMMEDIATELY begin administering 100% oxygen to all victims. Monitor victims for respiratory distress.Warning: To prevent self-poisoning, avoid mouth-to-mouth breathing; use a forced-oxygen mask. Direct oral contact with malononitrile-contaminated persons or their gastric contents can result in self-poisoning.;3. RUSH to a health care facility!;4. Obtain authorization and/or further instructions from the local hospital for administration of an antidote or performance of other invasive procedures.;Dermal/Eye Exposure:;1. Remove victims from exposure. Emergency personnel should avoid self-exposure to malononitrile.;2. Evaluate vital signs including pulse and respiratory rate, and note any trauma. If no pulse is detected, provide CPR. If not breathing, provide artificial respiration. IMMEDIATELY begin administering 100% oxygen to all victims. Monitor victims for respiratory distress.Warning: To prevent self-poisoning, avoid mouth-to-mouth breathing; use a forced-oxygen mask. Direct oral contact with malononitrile-contaminated persons or their gastric contents can result in self-poisoning.;3. RUSH to a health care facility!;4. Remove contaminated clothing as soon as possible.;5. If eye exposure has occurred, eyes must be flushed with lukewarm water for at least 15 minutes.;6. Wash exposed skin areas twice with soap and water.;7. Obtain authorization and/or further instructions from the local hospital for administration of an antidote or performance of other invasive procedures.;Ingestion Exposure:;1. Evaluate vital signs including pulse and respiratory rate, and note any trauma. If no pulse is detected, provide CPR. If not breathing, provide artificial respiration. IMMEDIATELY begin administering 100% oxygen to all victims. Monitor victims for respiratory distress.Warning: To prevent self-poisoning, avoid mouth-to-mouth breathing; use a forced-oxygen mask. Direct oral contact with malononitrile-contaminated persons or their gastric contents can result in self-poisoning.;2. RUSH to a health care facility!;3. Obtain authorization and/or further instructions from the local hospital for administration of an antidote or performance of other invasive procedures.

General First Aid:;· Call 911 or emergency medical service.;· Ensure that medical personnel are aware of the material(s) involved, take precautions to protect themselves and avoid contamination.;· Move victim to fresh air if it can be done safely.;· Administer oxygen if breathing is difficult.;· If victim is not breathing:;-- DO NOT perform mouth-to-mouth resuscitation; the victim may have ingested or inhaled the substance.;-- If equipped and pulse detected, wash face and mouth, then give artificial respiration using a proper respiratory medical device (bag-valve mask, pocket mask equipped with a one-way valve or other device).;-- If no pulse detected or no respiratory medical device available, provide continuous compressions. Conduct a pulse check every two minutes or monitor for any signs of spontaneous respirations.;· Remove and isolate contaminated clothing and shoes.;· For minor skin contact, avoid spreading material on unaffected skin.;· In case of contact with substance, remove immediately by flushing skin or eyes with running water for at least 20 minutes.;· For severe burns, immediate medical attention is required.;· Effects of exposure (inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact) to substance may be delayed.;· Keep victim calm and warm.;· Keep victim under observation.;· For further assistance, contact your local Poison Control Center.;· Note: Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Life Support (ALS) should be done by trained professionals.;Specific First Aid:;· For corrosives, in case of contact, immediately flush skin or eyes with running water for at least 30 minutes. Additional flushing may be required.

(General first aid procedures);Eye: Irrigate immediately - If this chemical contacts the eyes, immediately wash (irrigate) the eyes with large amounts of water, occasionally lifting the lower and upper lids. Get medical attention immediately.;Skin: Water wash immediately - If this chemical contacts the skin, immediately wash the contaminated skin with water. If this chemical penetrates the clothing, immediately remove the clothing and wash the skin with water. If symptoms occur after washing, get medical attention immediately.;Breathing: Respiratory support;Swallow: Medical attention immediately - If this chemical has been swallowed, get medical attention immediately.

Safe StorageCool. Separated from strong bases and food and feedstuffs. Well closed. Keep in a well-ventilated room.
Exposure Control and Personal Protection · 1 item

· Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).;· Wear chemical protective clothing that is specifically recommended by the manufacturer when there is NO RISK OF FIRE.;· Structural firefighters' protective clothing provides thermal protection but only limited chemical protection.

Toxicology

Treatment · 1 item

Antidotes to cyanide poisoning include hydroxocobalamin and sodium nitrite, which release the cyanide from the cytochrome system, and rhodanase, which is an enzyme occurring naturally in mammals that combines serum cyanide with thiosulfate, producing comparatively harmless thiocyanate. Oxygen therapy can also be administered. (L97)

Interactions · 2 items

SODIUM THIOSULFATE, SODIUM NITRITE, OR CARBON TETRACHLORIDE PROTECTED MICE AGAINST LETHAL EFFECTS OF MALONONITRILE. HIGH TISSUE CYANIDE CONCN FOUND AFTER MALONONITRILE ADMIN WERE REDUCED IN MICE PRETREATED WITH SODIUM THIOSULFATE OR CARBON TETRACHLORIDE.

The toxic mechanism of nitriles and the effect of metabolic modifiers in mice were studied in relation to their physicochemical properties. All the test nitriles liberated cyanide both in vivo and in vitro, with the exception of benzonitrile, although the extent of liberation and the effect of carbon tetrachloride pretreatment on the mortality of animals differed among nitriles. From these results, test compounds were tentatively divided into 3 groups. In group 1, acute toxicity was greatly reduced by carbon tetrachloride pretreatment, in group 2, toxicity was not significantly changed or was somewhat enhanced, and in group 3, benzonitrile only, toxicity was clearly enhanced. The amount of cyanide was higher at death in the brains of mice given group 1 compounds, the level being comparable to that found in mice killed by dosing with potassium cyanide. The relation between log (1/LD50) and log p for the compounds in group 1 fitted a parabolic plot, while that for compounds in group 2 was linear. For most nitriles, the in vitro metabolism was inhibited when the incubation mixture contained either SKF-525A, carbon monoxide, or microsomes from mice treated with carbon tetrachloride. When mice were dosed with ethyl alcohol, metabolic enhancement of nitriles was seen compared with the control. However, ethyl alcohol, when added to the incubation mixture, inhibited the in vitro metabolism of nitriles. /Nitriles/

Target OrgansEyes, skin, respiratory system, central nervous system, cardiovascular system
Health Effects · 1 item

Exposure to high levels of cyanide for a short time harms the brain and heart and can even cause coma, seizures, apnea, cardiac arrest and death. Chronic inhalation of cyanide causes breathing difficulties, chest pain, vomiting, blood changes, headaches, and enlargement of the thyroid gland. Skin contact with cyanide salts can irritate and produce sores. (L96, L97)

Ecotoxicity Values · 3 items

LC50 Rainbow trout 1.6 mg/l/96 hr /Conditions of bioassay not specified/

LC50 Pimephales promelas (fathead minnow) 0.56 mg/l/96 hr (confidence limit 0.51 - 0.61 mg/l), flow-through bioassay with measured concentrations, 24.1 °C, dissolved oxygen 6.3 mg/l, hardness 45.6 mg/l calcium carbonate, alkalinity 42.5 mg/l calcium carbonate, and pH 7.53.

EC50 Pimephales promelas (fathead minnow) 0.52 mg/l/96 hr (confidence limit 0.47 - 0.57 mg/l), flow-through bioassay with measured concentrations, 24.1 °C, dissolved oxygen 6.3 mg/l, hardness 45.6 mg/l calcium carbonate, alkalinity 42.5 mg/l calcium carbonate, and pH 7.53. Effect: loss of equilibrium.

Environmental Fate · 3 items

TERRESTRIAL FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), an estimated Koc value of 11(SRC), determined from a log Kow of -0.60(2) and a regression-derived equation(3), indicates that malononitrile is expected to have very high mobility in soil(SRC). Volatilization of malononitrile from moist soil surfaces is not expected to be an important fate process(SRC) given an estimated Henry's Law constant of 1.27X10-8 atm-cu m/mole(SRC), using a fragment constant estimation method(4). Malononitrile is not expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon a vapor pressure of 0.20 mm Hg(5). Nitriles are biodegraded by enzyme-catalyzed hydrolysis to ultimately form carboxylic acids and ammonia(6,7). Thus, malononitrile may biodegrade in soil(SRC).

AQUATIC FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), an estimated Koc value of 11(SRC), determined from a log Kow of -0.60(2) and a regression-derived equation(3), indicates that malononitrile is not expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment(SRC). Volatilization from water surfaces is not expected(3) based upon an estimated Henry's Law constant of 1.27X10-8 atm-cu m/mole(SRC), developed using a fragment constant estimation method(4). According to a classification scheme(5), an estimated BCF of 3(SRC), from its log Kow(2) and a regression-derived equation(6), suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low(SRC). The neutral and base hydrolysis rate constants for malononitrile in water at 25 °C were experimentally determined to be 0.00135/hr and 806/M-hr, respectively, which corresponds to a half-life of 20.2 days at a pH of 7(7); at pHs of 5, 6, 8 and 9, the hydrolysis half-lives would be 21.4, 21.3. 13.4 and 3.1 days, respectively(SRC). Nitriles are biodegraded by enzyme-catalyzed hydrolysis to ultimately form carboxylic acids and ammonia(8,9). Thus, malononitrile may biodegrade in water(SRC).

ATMOSPHERIC FATE: According to a model of gas/particle partitioning of semivolatile organic compounds in the atmosphere(1), malononitrile, which has a vapor pressure of 0.200 mm Hg at 25 °C(2), is expected to exist solely as a vapor in the ambient atmosphere(SRC). Vapor-phase malononitrile is degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals(SRC); the half-life for this reaction in air is estimated to be 476 days(SRC), calculated from its rate constant of 3.37X10-14 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(SRC) determined using a structure estimation method(3).

Regulatory information

Regulatory Information · 5 items

Chemical: Propanedinitrile

Propanedinitrile is listed on the EPA's Chemical Data Reporting (CDR) system. Manufacturers and importers of Propanedinitrile are required to report information about their production and use of this chemical to the EPA under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). (40 eCFR Part 711)

Status: Active Update: 21-01-2020 https://echa.europa.eu/registration-dossier/-/registered-dossier/1151;Status: Active Update: 18-11-2013 https://echa.europa.eu/registration-dossier/-/registered-dossier/8340

Malononitrile: Does not have an individual approval but may be used under an appropriate group standard

The New Jersey Worker and Community Right to Know Act requires public and private employers to provide information about hazardous substances at their workplaces. (N.J.S.A. 34:5A-1 et. seq.)

RCRA Requirements · 1 item

U149; As stipulated in 40 CFR 261.33, when malononitrile, as a commercial chemical product or manufacturing chemical intermediate or an off-specification commercial chemical product or a manufacturing chemical intermediate, becomes a waste, it must be managed according to Federal and/or State hazardous waste regulations. Also defined as a hazardous waste is any residue, contaminated soil, water, or other debris resulting from the cleanup of a spill, into water or on dry land, of this waste. Generators of small quantities of this waste may qualify for partial exclusion from hazardous waste regulations (40 CFR 261.5).

TSCA Requirements · 2 items

Pursuant to section 8(d) of TSCA, EPA promulgated a model Health and Safety Data Reporting Rule. The section 8(d) model rule requires manufacturers, importers, and processors of listed chemical substances and mixtures to submit to EPA copies and lists of unpublished health and safety studies. Propanedinitrile is included on this list.

Manufacturers and processors of malononitrile are required to conduct soil adsorption and subchronic toxicity testing under TSCA section 4.

CERCLA Reportable Quantities · 2 items

Persons in charge of vessels or facilities are required to notify the National Response Center (NRC) immediately, when there is a release of this designated hazardous substance, in an amount equal to or greater than its reportable quantity of 1000 lb or 454 kg. The toll free number of the NRC is (800) 424-8802; In the Washington D.C. metropolitan area (202) 426-2675. The rule for determining when notification is required is stated in 40 CFR 302.4 (section IV. D.3.b).

Releases of CERCLA hazardous substances are subject to the release reporting requirement of CERCLA section 103, codified at 40 CFR part 302, in addition to the requirements of 40 CFR part 355. Malononitrile is an extremely hazardous substance (EHS) subject to reporting requirements when stored in amounts in excess of its threshold planning quantity (TPQ) of 500 or 10,000 lbs. Extremely hazardous substances that are solids are subject to either of two threshold planning quantities ... The lower quantity applies only if the solid exists in powdered for and has a particle size less than 100 microns; or is handled in solution or in molten form; or meets the criteria for a National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) rating of 2, 3 or 4 for reactivity. If the solid does not meet any of these criteria, it is subject to the upper ... threshold planning quantity ... .

Clean Water Act RequirementsToxic pollutant designated pursuant to section 307(a)(1) of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act and is subject to effluent limitations. /Cyanides/

Safety data

F
8
OEB
B
OEL
TWA: 3 ppm (8 mg/m3)
PPE
Eyeshields, Faceshields, Gloves, type P2 (EN 143) respirator cartridges
wgk
3
tsca
TSCA listed

Chemistry & industry

Pharmacology

Mechanism of Action · 1 item

CYTOTOXIC ANOXIA IS CONSEQUENCE OF INTERFERENCE WITH CELL METAB IN PRESENCE OF ADEQUATE SUPPLY OF ... BLOOD & OXYGEN. CYTOTOXIC ANOXIA MAY RESULT FROM METABOLIC INHIBITORS SUCH AS ... MALONONITRILE ... IN CONTRAST TO ... SUSCEPTIBILITY OF NEURONS ... TO ISCHEMIC & ANOXIC ANOXIA, IT IS OLIGODENDROGLIA THAT ARE MORE SUSCEPTIBLE TO INJURY FROM REPEATED ... TOXIC DOSES OF METAB INHIBITORS.

Metabolism/Metabolites · 3 items

Male ddY mice were pretreated with carbon tetrachloride or olive oil and administered malononitrile orally in concentrations sufficient to determine the median lethal dose (LD50). Brain cyanide concentrations were determined. The distribution coefficient for partitioning malononitrile between water and n-octanol was measured. Mice were pretreated as before and dosed at 3 to 5 times the LD50. Mean survival times were determined. Hepatic microsomes were obtained from mice pretreated with carbon tetrachloride or olive oil and incubated with malononitrile. The rate of release of free cyanide was investigated. The oral LD50 for animals pretreated with olive oil was 1.799 mmol/kg. The LD50 for the carbon tetrachloride treated mice was 1.626 mmol/kg. Brain cyanide concentrations in olive oil pretreated mice ranged from 0.35 to 0.74 ug/g. Carbon tetrachloride pretreatment lengthened survival and reduced brain cyanide concentrations. Dinitriles are metabolized to cyanides in vivo and in vitro.

In the presence of thiosulfate, brain, liver and kidney slices metabolized malononitrile to thiocyanate. The formation of thiocyanate from malononitrile and thiosulfate was greatest in the presence of liver slices, lowest in brain, and intermediate with kidney slices. The liver enzyme system was saturated at a concentration of 3.3 mM malononitrile and a pH optimum of 7.0. This enzyme system was inhibited by cysteine and glutathione and inactivated by boiling. ... Thiosulfate increased cyanide and thiocyanate formed from malononitrile in tissue slices.

Organic nitriles are converted into cyanide ions through the action of cytochrome P450 enzymes in the liver. Cyanide is rapidly absorbed and distributed throughout the body. Cyanide is mainly metabolized into thiocyanate by either rhodanese or 3-mercaptopyruvate sulfur transferase. Cyanide metabolites are excreted in the urine. (L96)

Uses & manufacturing

Uses · 4 items

Used in organic synthesis of thiamine, an anti-cancer drug, acrylic fibers, and dyes; used as a leaching agent for gold; [HSDB]

Organic synthesis; leaching agent for gold

Used as lubricating oil additive; thiamine synthesis; anti-cancer agent synthesis; acrylic fiber and dyestuff synthesis.

In life science industry, especially for synthesis of N-containing heterocycles; in production of herbicides, the diuretic triamterene, antineoplastic methotrexate, adenine, dyes, 7,7,8,8-tetracyanoquinodimethane, 2-chlorobenzyliden malononitrile (CS-gas) used for self-defense.

U.S. Production2023: 250,000 - <550,000 lb;2022: 550,000 - <1,000,000 lb;2021: 550,000 - <1,000,000 lb;2020: 250,000 - <550,000 lb
Industry UsesIntermediate
Methods of Manufacturing · 3 items

Malononitrile can be produced from chloronitrile, methylnitrile and hydrogen cyanide at 700 °C.

Cyanochloride and acetonitrile are fed into a tube reactor above 700 °C

Produced batchwise by elimination of water from cyanoacetamide with phosphorus pentachloride.

Formulations/PreparationsMinimum 99% purity
General Manufacturing Information · 3 items

Pesticide, Fertilizer, and Other Agricultural Chemical Manufacturing

Propanedinitrile: ACTIVE

Malononitrile is also the hydrolysis product of 2-chlorobenzylidene malononitrile or CS-tear gas used for self-defense.

Applications · 4 items

DescriptionMalonitrile, also known as Malononitrile, is an aliphatic nitrile that can release cyanide through chemical or biological transformation. It was also used decades ago for treating certain forms of mental illness.

UsesMalononitrile is an important building block for the syntheses of pharmaceuticals (e.g. triamterene, adenine and methotrexate), thiamin (vitamin B1), pesticides dyestuffs for color photography and synthetic fibers (e.g. vinylidene cyanide). Product Data Sheet

UsesThe chemical properties of malononitrile are determined by the nucleophilicity of the malononitrile anion, formed by deprotonation with relatively weak bases and by the two electrophilic cyano groups.

General DescriptionA white-colored crystalline solid. Denser than water and soluble in water. Toxic by ingestion and may severely irritate skin and eyes. May polymerize violently if exposed to temperatures above 266°F. Used to make other chemicals.

Upstream & downstream products

Downstream products

1,4,5,8-Naphthalenetetracarboxylic acid2-Aminonicotinic acid2-Amino-3-cyanopyridine2-AMINO-6-CHLORO-3,5-DICYANOPYRIDINE4-AMINO-1,2,5-OXADIAZOLE-3-CARBONITRILE2-Chloro-4,6-dimethoxypyrimidine5-AMINO-4-CYANO-3-METHYL-THIOPHENE-2-CARBOXYLIC ACID ETHYL ESTER2-AMINO-3-CYANO-4-METHYL-5-CARBMETHOXY THIOPHENE2,4-DIAMINOPYRIMIDINE-5-CARBOXYLIC ACID2-AMINO-3,5-DICYANOPYRIDINE3-CYANO-7-ETHOXYCOUMARIN2-AMINO-6-METHYL-4,5,6,7-TETRAHYDRO-1-BENZOTHIOPHENE-3-CARBONITRILE

Additional notes

DefinitionChEBI: Malononitrile is a dinitrile that is methane substituted by two cyano groups. It is a dinitrile and an aliphatic nitrile.

Related reactions

846 records

Linked notes

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