Succinonitrile Explained

Succinonitrile, also butanedinitrile, is a nitrile, with the formula of C₂H₄(CN)₂. It is a colorless waxy solid which melts at 58 °C.

Succinonitrile is produced by the addition of hydrogen cyanide to acrylonitrile (hydrocyanation):^[1]

CH₂=CHCN + HCN → NCCH₂CH₂CN

Hydrogenation of succinonitrile yields putrescine (1,4-diaminobutane).

See also

• Malononitrile - A di-nitrile with 3 carbon atoms
• Glutaronitrile - A di-nitrile with 5 carbon atoms
• Adiponitrile - A di-nitrile with 6 carbon atoms

External links

• WebBook page for C4H4N2
• CDC - NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards

Notes and References

1. Encyclopedia: Ullmann's Encyclopedia of Industrial Chemistry. Nitriles. 2007-09-10. 7th.