Chemical Properties
colorless to light yellow liquid; sensitive to moisture; freezing point 58°C [STR93]
Uses
Used for synthesis of nitriles from halides, alcohols, aldehydes, ketones; synthesis of cyanohydrins; deoxygenation of ketones.
Synthesis
Lithium Cyanide is prepared from Lithium metal and Silver(I) Cyanide, from lithium hydride and Hydrogen Cyanide, or, more conveniently, from Acetone Cyanohydrin and lithium hydride.
storage
moisture-sensitive; like Sodium Cyanide and Potassium Cyanide, LiCN is highly toxic; use in a fume hood.
