Chemical Properties
CLEAR ORANGE-BROWN LIQUID
Uses
N,N-Diethylaminoacetonitrile as a formyl anion and formaldehyde dianion equivalent; synthesis of α-amino nitriles, α-amino-β-
hydroxy nitriles, aldehydes, ketones, and α,β-enals.
Preparation
N,N-Diethylaminoacetonitrile is prepared from diethylamine, formaldehyde, sodium cyanide, and sodium disulfite.
[1]
Safety Profile
Poison by skin contact.
Moderately toxic by inhalation. A skin and
severe eye irritant. When heated to
decomposition it emits toxic fumes of NOx.
See also NITRILES.
storage
N,N-Diethylaminoacetonitrile is an organic cyanide and should be handled with due care in a fume
hood.
References
1. Allen, C. F. H.; VanAllan, I. A. OSC 1955, 3, 275.