Succinonitrile


Succinonitrile, also butanedinitrile, is a nitrile, with the formula of C2H42. It is an odorless, colorless to light brown crystal or colourless waxy solid which melts at 58 °C.
Succinonitrile is produced by the addition of hydrogen cyanide to acrylonitrile :
Hydrogenation of succinonitrile yields putrescine.

Applications

Succinonitrile may find applications as the "solvent" in lithium batteries.

Safety

Like most nitriles, succinonitrile is toxic and can release cyanide ions in the body. NIOSH recommends a TWA exposure limit of 6 ppm.