Orthophthalonitrile

Orthophthalonitrile is an organic compound with the chemical formula C8H4N2. It is a colorless solid and is a derivative of phthalonitrile, where the two nitrile groups are located on adjacent carbon atoms of a benzene ring. Its systematic IUPAC name is benzene-1,2-dicarbonitrile. Orthophthalonitrile is a precursor to a variety of important compounds, most notably phthalocyanines. Phthalocyanines are a class of intensely colored, large macrocyclic organic compounds that are widely used as pigments and dyes. They are known for their exceptional stability to light, heat, and chemicals. The synthesis of phthalocyanines typically involves the cyclotetramerization of orthophthalonitrile, often in the presence of a metal salt or metal-free conditions. Beyond its role in phthalocyanine synthesis, orthophthalonitrile can also be used in the preparation of other organic intermediates and polymers. It is generally handled with care due to its potential toxicity.