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20099-89-2 (4-(Bromoacetyl)benzonitrile): Chemical Properties, Uses, and Safety Overview

Introduction

4-(Bromoacetyl)benzonitrile (CAS No. 20099-89-2) is an important aromatic haloketone widely used as a reactive intermediate in organic synthesis. The presence of both a bromoacetyl group and a nitrile functional group makes this compound highly valuable in pharmaceutical research, agrochemical development, and fine chemical manufacturing.

This article provides a comprehensive overview of 20099-89-2 (4-(Bromoacetyl)benzonitrile), including its chemical properties, industrial applications, and essential safety considerations.

Chemical Identity and Structure

  • Chemical Name: 4-(Bromoacetyl)benzonitrile

  • CAS Number: 20099-89-2

  • Molecular Formula: C₉H₆BrNO

  • Molecular Weight: ~224.05 g/mol

  • IUPAC Name: 4-(2-Bromoacetyl)benzonitrile

  • Chemical Class: Aromatic haloketone, nitrile compound

Structural Characteristics

The molecule features:

  • A benzene ring

  • A nitrile (-CN) group at the para position

  • A bromoacetyl (-COCH₂Br) side chain

This combination provides excellent reactivity for nucleophilic substitution and coupling reactions.

Physical and Chemical Properties

Property
Description
Appearance
Off-white to pale yellow crystalline solid
Odor
Slight or characteristic
Solubility
Slightly soluble in water; soluble in organic solvents
Melting Point
Moderate
Stability
Stable under normal storage conditions

Chemical Behavior

  • Highly reactive due to the α-bromoketone group

  • Suitable for C–C and C–N bond-forming reactions

  • Acts as a key building block in heterocyclic synthesis

Applications of 20099-89-2 (4-(Bromoacetyl)benzonitrile)

1. Pharmaceutical Industry

  • Intermediate in synthesis of drug candidates and APIs

  • Used in medicinal chemistry for constructing complex molecules

  • Supports development of biologically active heterocycles

2. Agrochemical and Specialty Chemicals

  • Used in the preparation of pesticide and herbicide intermediates

  • Suitable for specialty chemical formulations

3. Fine Chemical and Custom Synthesis

  • Widely used in custom organic synthesis

  • Intermediate for dyes, pigments, and functional materials

  • Ideal for laboratory-to-scale-up production

4. Research and Development

  • Common reagent in organic synthesis laboratories

  • Used in reaction mechanism studies and new compound development

Manufacturing and Synthesis Overview

4-(Bromoacetyl)benzonitrile is generally synthesized through:

  • Acylation reactions of benzonitrile derivatives

  • Bromination under controlled conditions

  • Purification by crystallization or filtration

High-purity material is essential to ensure consistent downstream performance.

Safety and Handling Guidelines

Potential Hazards

  • Causes skin and eye irritation

  • Harmful if inhaled or swallowed

  • Reactive bromoacetyl group requires careful handling

Handling Precautions

  • Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)

  • Handle in a well-ventilated environment

  • Avoid contact with skin and moisture

Storage Recommendations

  • Store in a cool, dry, and ventilated area

  • Keep containers tightly closed

  • Protect from heat and direct sunlight

Environmental and Regulatory Considerations

  • Dispose according to local and international chemical regulations

  • Prevent release into water and soil

  • Review Safety Data Sheet (SDS) prior to use

The compound is typically supplied in compliance with standard chemical transport regulations.

Quality Standards and Packaging

  • Typical purity: ≥98%

  • Supplied with Certificate of Analysis (COA)

  • Secure packaging to ensure product integrity during shipping

Conclusion

20099-89-2 (4-(Bromoacetyl)benzonitrile) is a highly reactive and valuable intermediate for pharmaceutical, agrochemical, and specialty chemical applications. Its unique structural features enable efficient synthesis of complex organic molecules.

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