Uses of Adiponitrile

Adiponitrile is an odorless, colorless liquid that decomposes on heating to react violently with strong oxidants. Upon burning, the highly toxic hydrogen cyanide is produced.It is the organic compound with the formula (CH2)4(CN)2. This dinitrile, a viscous, colourless liquid, is an important precursor to the polymer nylon 66. In 2005, about one million tonnes were produced.

Uses

The major use of adiponitrile is as an intermediate in the production of nylon. Lesser uses include that in organic synthesis and in the preparation of adipoguanamine, which is used as an extractant for aromatic hydrocarbons.

Mechanism of Toxicity 

The mechanism of adiponitrile’s toxicity relates to its ability to release cyanide both in vitro and in vivo. Cyanide then forms a stable complex with ferric iron in the cytochrome oxidase enzyme. Since this enzyme occupies a central role in the utilization of oxygen in practically all cells, inhibition produces an inhibition of cellular respiration.

Environmental Fate

Adiponitrile will exist solely as a vapor in the ambient atmosphere. The chemical can be degraded in air by photochemically produced hydroxyl radicals with a half-life of 23 days. Adiponitrile is expected to have very high mobility in soil, with volatilization from soil or water surfaces not expected to be an important fate process. The chemical is expected to biodegrade in aquatic and soil systems. The potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low.