methanamide

Methanamide, also known as formamide, is the simplest amide of formic acid. Its chemical formula is HCONH2 (often written CH3NO). It is a colorless, highly polar liquid at room temperature, with a boiling point around 210°C and a density near 1.13 g/cm3. Formamide is miscible with water and many organic solvents, owing to its strong hydrogen-bonding capability.

Formamide can be prepared by the direct amidation of formic acid with ammonia, yielding formamide and water. It can also arise as a byproduct or intermediate in various industrial processes. In chemical reactions, it is stable under normal laboratory conditions but can hydrolyze to formic acid and ammonia in the presence of water or base.

Applications of methanamide center on its role as a versatile solvent and reagent. It is widely used as a polar, high-boiling solvent in organic synthesis, polymer chemistry, and the pharmaceutical industry. Its ability to dissolve a wide range of substances makes it valuable for purification, chromatography, and as a reaction medium. Formamide is also employed as a precursor or formylating agent in the preparation of certain pharmaceuticals and fine chemicals. In addition, it has been explored as a component in electrolyte formulations for lithium-based batteries and other electrochemical systems.

Safety and handling are important when working with formamide. It is toxic and can irritate skin, eyes, and the respiratory tract; prolonged exposure may affect health. It should be used with appropriate engineering controls and personal protective equipment, in a well-ventilated area, and waste should be disposed of according to applicable regulations.