Carbonitriles

Carbonitriles are organic compounds that contain a cyano functional group, which consists of a carbon atom triple-bonded to a nitrogen atom. The general formula for a carbonitrile is RCN, where R represents an alkyl or aryl group. The cyano group is highly polar due to the electronegativity difference between carbon and nitrogen, which influences the reactivity and properties of carbonitriles. They are also known as nitriles.

Carbonitriles can be synthesized through various methods, including the dehydration of amides, the reaction of alkyl halides with cyanide salts, and the ammoxidation of alkenes. Their chemical reactivity is primarily associated with the cyano group, which can undergo hydrolysis to form carboxylic acids or amides, reduction to form amines, and addition reactions with nucleophiles. These reactions make carbonitriles valuable intermediates in organic synthesis.

Industrially, carbonitriles have diverse applications. Acrylonitrile, a common carbonitrile, is a key monomer in the production of acrylic fibers, plastics like ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene), and synthetic rubber. Other carbonitriles are used as solvents, in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and dyes. The presence of the cyano group can impart specific properties to materials, such as increased tensile strength and heat resistance in polymers.