Nitriler

Nitriler is a term used in some languages to refer to nitrile-related compounds and materials. In English, the standard term is nitrile, and nitriler may appear in regional, historical, or informal usage to denote the same or related concepts. The article below outlines the main senses in which nitriler is encountered.

Nitriles are a broad class of organic compounds containing a cyano group (-C≡N). They are used as solvents, intermediates in chemical synthesis, and as monomers or building blocks for various polymers and specialty chemicals. The nitrile group is polar, which influences reactivity and physical properties, and nitriles can be transformed into other functional groups through hydrolysis, hydrogenation, and other reactions.

Nitrile rubber (NBR) is a widely used synthetic elastomer produced from acrylonitrile and butadiene. The acrylonitrile content typically ranges from about 18% to 50%, with higher acrylonitrile content increasing chemical resistance and oil resistance at the expense of elasticity. NBR is commonly used for seals, O-rings, hoses, and protective coatings in automotive, industrial, and domestic applications.

Nitrile gloves are disposable gloves made from nitrile rubber. They offer good chemical resistance, flexibility, and are an alternative to latex gloves for people with latex allergies. They are widely used in healthcare, laboratories, and industrial settings.

Production and chemistry: major industrial routes to nitriles include the ammoxidation of propylene to acrylonitrile and the dehydration of amides to nitriles. Nitriles can also be formed by cyanation of alkyl or aryl substrates. Reactive transformations enable conversion of nitriles to amines, carboxylic acids, and other derivatives.

Safety and handling: many nitriles are toxic or irritant; some, such as acrylonitrile, are considered hazardous and require proper controls. Materials containing nitrile groups should be handled according to relevant safety guidelines.

See also: nitrile group, acrylonitrile, NBR, nitrile gloves.