3-Amino-2-Nitrobenzonitrile shows up in the world of organic chemistry with a name that hints at its complicated backbone. This compound, bearing the molecular formula C7H5N3O2, carries an amino group at the third position, a nitro group at the second position, and a nitrile group attached to the benzene ring. It's a yellow-to-brown solid, sometimes found as fine powder, crystalline flakes, and in rarer cases as larger pearls depending on purification and handling methods. Under normal conditions, this material stands as a solid, but it will also dissolve partially into polar solvents, giving rise to various solutions that can be used in synthetic chemistry. Most users seek out this chemical as an intermediate for pharmaceutical, dye, or agrochemical applications.
The molecular structure invites interest right away due to its three different functional groups, each with distinct reactivity. The amino group enhances nucleophilicity, offering a handle for further chemical transformations; the nitro group brings electron-withdrawing power, making the aromatic ring less reactive to electrophilic attacks. The nitrile adds another layer of versatility, opening a path toward aminopyridines and other heteroaromatics via cyclization or substitution. The molecular weight lands at roughly 163.14 g/mol, and the density tends to hover close to 1.4 g/cm³. Chemical suppliers often provide this material with purity above 98%. Crystals from good batches come off as needle-like, sometimes clumping when moisture is present due to their tendency to absorb environmental water. Melting points can give a snapshot of product integrity, with most samples melting between 146°C and 150°C; deviations can signal impurities or byproducts.
Powder and crystalline forms cover most supply offerings, usually packed in sealed polyethylene bags or amber glass bottles to keep out light and moisture. The material resists light a bit, but the nitro group and amino presence can slowly react under intense exposure, so storage demands some planning. Because of the variety of forms—solid, flakes, or even as suspension in solvent for shipment—users should pay attention to material safety data sheets (MSDS) for correct handling procedures. As a raw material, it becomes a part of synthesis chains leading to specialty drugs, colorants, and other high value chemicals. In research settings, this compound encourages new routes toward nitrogen-rich benzene derivatives, which often pop up in patented processes for fine chemical manufacturing.
Specifications need a close look. Alongside appearance and purity, water content, heavy metal traces, and residual solvents top the checklist for any serious buyer. The relevant Harmonized System Code (HS Code) for this compound usually falls under 292690, grouping it among nitrile-function organic chemicals. Technicians involved in industrial purchases typically ask for certificates of analysis, spectra, and even specific testing data to support process needs. This level of scrutiny underlines the critical nature of quality benchmarks in chemical production. Users in custom synthesis don’t just want any solid yellow powder—they look for a well-characterized material with the right particle size, stable color, low odor, and compliance documentation.
Safety practices matter from warehouse to lab bench. 3-Amino-2-Nitrobenzonitrile holds its own set of hazards, attributed to the nitro group’s potential toxicity and the possibility for the nitrile group to release harmful gases at high temps. Direct inhalation of dust or skin contact should stay on everyone’s avoid list. Gloves, goggles, and dust respirators belong in the toolkit for anyone weighing or processing this powder. While the chemistry offers rewards, stories from seasoned handlers always circle back to careful, deliberate management—the smell escaping from an uncapped bottle serves as a quick reminder of its chemical potency. Spills get scooped with inert absorbents; disposal routes follow strict environmental guidelines. Facilities stocking this chemical often build routines around containment and protective gear, and these habits keep both workers and surroundings out of trouble.
The story doesn’t end at the plant gate: industry leaders continue to address environmental impact by reviewing waste disposal practices and seeking greener synthesis routes. Scientists have pointed to alternatives that swap out harsh oxidants and limit solvent use for reactions involving this compound, keeping both resource efficiency and downstream impacts in mind. Some companies have moved toward closed-system transfers, reducing emissions, and rigorous filtration to capture airborne particles before they escape outside. Long-term sustainability still lands as a challenge, yet each regulatory inspection brings new deadlines and technical creativity into play—proof that compliance and innovation often run side by side in the world of industrial chemicals.
