Nitromethane CAS 75-52-5

Introduction to Nitromethane

Nitromethane is the simplest nitroparaffin, with a single nitro group bonded directly to a methyl carbon. It appears as a clear, colorless liquid at room temperature with a mild characteristic odor. It mixes fully with most organic solvents and shows partial miscibility with water, forming azeotropic mixtures under specific conditions.

Commercial production relies on vapor-phase nitration of propane or methane under controlled temperature and pressure. The strong polarity of the nitro group gives the compound exceptional solvency for resins, waxes and cellulose derivatives. It participates in Henry condensation, reduction and halogenation reactions, and serves as a versatile intermediate across fine chemical production chains.

Nitromethane Chemical & Physical Properties

Applications of Nitromethane

Organic synthesis intermediate: Used in Henry reactions to produce nitroalcohols, amino alcohols and pharmaceutical intermediates. It also serves as a precursor for chloropicrin and other agrochemical active ingredients.

Specialty solvent: Dissolves acrylic resins, vinyl polymers and cellulose esters for coating and adhesive formulation. Its high polarity supports dissolution of polar polymers that show limited solubility in hydrocarbon solvents.

Racing fuel and additive: Blended into high-performance racing fuels to increase oxygen content and boost combustion power output. It also acts as a reference fuel in engine testing procedures.

Analytical and laboratory use: Applied as a solvent for NMR spectroscopy and as a standard reference material in analytical calibration procedures.

Storage & Safety Precautions

• Store in tightly sealed steel drums in a cool, ventilated flammable liquid warehouse. Keep away from heat sources, open flame and strong oxidizers. Maintain storage temperature below 30 °C.
• Wear chemical splash goggles, butyl rubber gloves and flame-resistant clothing during transfer operations. Use local exhaust ventilation to control vapor levels. The compound may cause irritation to skin, eyes and respiratory tract.
• Ground and bond all transfer equipment to prevent static buildup. Do not store material alongside amines, strong bases or reactive metals. Inspect containers regularly for leakage and discoloration.

Nitromethane FAQ

Q: What primary uses does industrial Nitromethane serve?

A: It works mainly as a polar solvent and synthesis intermediate for pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals and specialty chemicals. It also appears in high-performance fuel formulations.

Q: Is Nitromethane miscible with water?

A: Nitromethane shows partial solubility in water around 10.5 g/100 mL at 20 °C. It mixes freely with most common organic solvents and forms azeotropes under certain conditions.

Q: What storage rules apply to bulk Nitromethane?

A: Store in sealed drums in a cool, ventilated flammable area. Keep away from strong bases and oxidizers. Ground all transfer lines to prevent static discharge.