2-Thienylacetonitrile comes from the family of organosulfur compounds, specifically bearing the thienyl motif linked to an acetonitrile group. This colorless to pale yellow crystalline powder or flake usually stands out in a set of raw chemical materials for its distinct smell and characteristic appearance. With its CAS number 350-03-8 and molecular formula C6H5NS, 2-Thienylacetonitrile features a molecular weight of 123.18 g/mol. I remember once trying to differentiate between similar compounds by smell and feel—this one leaves a lasting impression even through gloves and masks, a reminder of the attention needed when handling thienyl derivatives in any lab.
2-Thienylacetonitrile appears as a crystalline solid, sometimes presenting as flakes, powder, or even small pearls depending on manufacturing conditions. Its density hovers around 1.14 g/cm³, which means it settles distinctly at the bottom in most organic solvent mixtures, making separations straightforward for most lab work. Melting begins near 37°C, so storage at room temperature prevents accidental liquefaction. Some batches may contain minor discolorations due to sulfur impurities, yet the main physicochemical structure remains unchanged under proper storage. It dissolves in many organic solvents—dichloromethane, ethanol, and ethyl acetate—making it a versatile precursor in laboratories and processes where solution handling beats out working with solids. Liquid forms can sometimes emerge after fluctuating temperatures, but they quickly revert to crystals given moderate cooling or aeration. In my experience, transferring 2-Thienylacetonitrile between vessels, solid clumping never posed much trouble; a gentle tap brought the crystalline powder free, while pearls and flakes poured without resistance.
Examining the compound’s structure, the thiophene ring (a five-membered ring containing one sulfur atom) attaches to a -CH2CN group, which brings significant reactivity, especially in nucleophilic addition and organometallic chemistry. This configuration makes 2-Thienylacetonitrile a frequent choice in pharmaceutical syntheses, especially where modification of heterocyclic systems adds value. The presence of both aromatic and nitrile functionalities allows for broad chemical reactions—hydrolysis, reduction, cross-coupling—making this material a cornerstone in research and industrial settings. The compound’s structure also imparts a modest volatility, which calls for solid storage protocols. I once watched a careless researcher evaporate an entire batch by leaving a flask uncapped near a bench light—a costly and smelly lesson about taking those volatility warnings seriously.
For regulatory and trade purposes, the HS Code assigned to 2-Thienylacetonitrile typically falls within 2934999099, covering nitrile derivatives not otherwise specified. Purity generally exceeds 98% for research-grade material, with color and physical form included in standardized quality checks. Water content remains below 0.5%, and a sharp melting range characterizes lots meeting high purity demands. In the world of specialty chemicals, inconsistent color or physical state nearly always points to poor storage or improper packaging, so paying attention at receiving docks pays off downstream. Each specification reflects risks found in the supply chain—moisture, oxygen, UV exposure—so every shipment matters not just for cost but for final-product reliability, especially in regulated industries.
2-Thienylacetonitrile ranks as a hazardous chemical, classed under harmful agents for its toxicity and potential environmental impacts. The nitrile group means exposure via inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact poses possible health risks, including respiratory tract irritation, skin sensitization, and, in some animal models, more severe systemic effects. Sulfur-heterocycles like this can trigger allergic-type responses in susceptible workers, so gloves, eye protection, and good ventilation turn from recommendations into requirements. Handling spills requires quick action—solid granules sweep up easily, while dissolved forms need chemical absorbents and careful containment. Disposal routes rely on high-temperature incineration, ideally in facilities licensed for organosulfur waste, to eliminate risks of groundwater contamination or air release. From experience in shared university labs, nothing ruins a week faster than lax waste discipline with thiophene derivatives—fumes, surface residues, or mislabeling draw instant attention from both safety inspectors and colleagues alike.
As a raw material, 2-Thienylacetonitrile plays a significant role in synthesizing pharmaceuticals, dyes, and advanced electronic materials. Reactions starting from this compound contribute to the development of cancer treatments, antibiotics, and even OLED display components due to the heterocyclic core’s electronic flexibility. In pilot plants and research setups, versatility and purity translate directly into better yields and fewer downstream purification headaches. The compound’s dual solubility—handling both aqueous and non-aqueous processes well—gives process chemists a rare level of flexibility. I remember seeing it pivot a stalled medicinal chemistry project from failure to breakthrough, just because its clean transformation allowed for a new analog series. In industrial-scale settings, raw material purity affects everyone from plant operators to formulators—reducing risk, saving on labor, and improving batch outcomes.
Proper storage calls for cool, dry environments, away from light and strong oxidizers. Even small lapses—like using the wrong plastic or a container that isn't tightly sealed—leads to clumping, surface crusting, or, if left months on a windowsill, breakdown products that stink and foul downstream reactions. Using glass or specialty high-density polyethylene works best for this powder, and every experienced chemist double-checks storage notes before long weekends or lab shutdowns. Large stocks always pull double duty as reference standards or are split for backup, recognizing that the cost of uncontrolled degradation is more than just dollars in a research environment.
Working with 2-Thienylacetonitrile places a responsibility on researchers, manufacturers, and logistics teams alike. Safety data and hands-on lab experience both point toward a common truth: diligent handling, well-written protocols, and strict adherence to regulatory guidelines prevent accidents and unlock the full potential this unique material offers. Its properties—molecular, physical, hazardous—shape both the risks and rewards found in advanced chemical research and industry. Every container and every transfer reflects choices made with knowledge, care, and attention to detail. For anyone invested in real-world progress, these are not just requirements—they are the difference between success and costly mistakes.
