Acrylonitrile: meaning, definitions and examples
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acrylonitrile
[ əˈkraɪloʊˌnaɪtraɪl ]
chemical compound
Acrylonitrile is a colorless, volatile liquid that is used in the production of plastics, synthetic rubber, and fibers. It is primarily known for being a precursor to acrylic fibers and resins, which are important in various industrial applications.
Synonyms
2-propenenitrile, vinyl cyanide
Examples of usage
- Acrylonitrile is used to manufacture acrylic fibers.
- Safety precautions are necessary when handling acrylonitrile due to its toxicity.
- The polymerization of acrylonitrile results in the creation of valuable materials.
Word origin
The term 'acrylonitrile' is derived from 'acrylic', which comes from the Latin word 'acer', meaning 'sharp' or 'sour'. The suffix 'nitrile' indicates its chemical composition, which contains a cyano group (–C≡N). Acrylonitrile was first synthesized in the 19th century and was further developed in the 20th century as a key industrial compound. Its significance grew with the rise of synthetic materials, particularly in the textile and plastic industries. The chemical formula for acrylonitrile is C3H3N, and its discovery marked a pivotal advancement in chemical engineering, allowing for new types of polymers that are durable and versatile.