Acetonitrile serves as a polar aprotic solvent in refinery operations, particularly in the purification of butadiene from mixed hydrocarbon streams. It is also used as a solvent in pharmaceutical manufacturing, where its purity and volatility support efficient downstream processing.

Photographic film production has historically relied on acetonitrile for similar solvent properties. Its combination of chemical inertness and clean evaporation makes it well suited to processes where solvent residue must be minimized.

Acetonitrile is the dominant solvent used in oligonucleotide and DNA synthesis, where its compatibility with automated synthesizers and low reactivity are essential. It serves as the standard mobile-phase solvent in HPLC, prized for its low UV cutoff and low viscosity, which improve chromatographic resolution and reduce backpressure.

In electrochemistry, it is a popular solvent for cyclic voltammetry because it dissolves a wide range of ionic and nonpolar compounds without interfering with electrochemical measurements. These properties collectively make it a staple across analytical and research laboratories.

Acetonitrile plays a role in battery chemistry due to its relatively high dielectric constant and its capacity to dissolve electrolyte salts effectively. This makes it useful in certain battery formulations and related electrochemical research.

It also functions as a common two-carbon building block in organic synthesis, contributing to the production of pesticides and fragrance compounds. Its reactivity profile allows chemists to introduce nitrile functionality efficiently into target molecules.

Acetonitrile is classified under GHS as a Flammable Liquid Category 2 (H225) and carries Acute Toxicity Category 4 ratings for oral, dermal, and inhalation exposure, along with Eye Irritation Category 2. A key safety consideration is that acetonitrile metabolizes into hydrogen cyanide in the body, meaning overexposure risk increases substantially at higher concentrations or with prolonged contact. Because of this metabolic pathway, symptoms of overexposure may not appear immediately, which requires vigilance during and after handling incidents.

Nitrile or rubber gloves provide appropriate skin protection when handling acetonitrile, and flame-retardant antistatic clothing should be worn to reduce ignition risk. Chemical safety glasses or goggles with a face shield are recommended whenever splashing is possible. In settings where airborne exposure may exceed 13 ppm, a NIOSH-approved respirator fitted with an organic vapor cartridge should be used to protect against inhalation.

Acetonitrile should be stored in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area, kept away from ignition sources, oxidizers, and strong acids. Containers must remain tightly sealed to limit vapor release and prevent moisture ingress, which can affect purity in sensitive applications. Segregating acetonitrile from incompatible materials during storage reduces the risk of unwanted reactions.

In the event of a spill, the area should be contained and ventilated promptly, with all ignition sources removed from the vicinity. Acetonitrile waste must be disposed of according to applicable federal and state regulations, as it is classified as both flammable and toxic waste. Proper labeling and segregation during disposal help ensure compliance with hazardous waste handling requirements.

Lab Alley supplies acetonitrile in a range of grades and pack sizes to meet laboratory, commercial, and industrial needs.

• ACS Reagent Grade (99.5%) for general laboratory and industrial use

• HPLC Grade (99.9%) for chromatographic mobile-phase applications

• LC/MS Grade for mass spectrometry-coupled analysis

• Preparative HPLC Grade for large-scale/preparative chromatography

• Anhydrous Reagent Grade (≤10 ppm H₂O) for moisture-sensitive applications

• Laboratory bottles: 500 mL to 4 L for lab-scale use

• Commercial containers: 5-gallon and 20 L for standard operations

• Industrial drums: 55-gallon for high-volume applications

• 4 x 4L case quantities and pallet quantities available for bulk purchasing

All Lab Alley containers are UN-approved and DOT-compliant (UN1648, Class 3 Flammable Liquid) with proper hazard labeling. Certificates of Analysis and Safety Data Sheets are available for every grade. Contact Lab Alley to confirm current stock and place an order for the grade and pack size that fits your application.