Glutaronitrile

Glutaronitrile is an organic compound with the chemical formula C5H6N2. It is a dinitrile, meaning it contains two nitrile functional groups (CN). Specifically, it is the dinitrile of glutaric acid. At room temperature, glutaronitrile is a colorless liquid or crystalline solid with a distinct odor. It is soluble in many organic solvents.

Glutaronitrile can be synthesized through various methods, often involving the dehydration of glutaramide or the reaction of 1,3-dibromopropane with sodium cyanide. Its chemical reactivity stems from the presence of the two nitrile groups, which can undergo hydrolysis to form carboxylic acids, reduction to amines, and addition reactions.

Industrially, glutaronitrile finds use as an intermediate in the production of other chemicals. It can be a precursor for polymers, pharmaceuticals, and agricultural chemicals. For example, its reduction yields pentanediamine, a monomer used in the production of nylon. Due to its chemical properties, it is also employed as a solvent in certain applications. Handling of glutaronitrile requires care due to its potential toxicity and flammability.