Knowledge

Are acetone and acetonitrile the same?

Mar 05, 2026 Leave a message

Acetone and acetonitrile are not the same; they are distinct chemical compounds with different formulas, properties, and toxicity levels.

Acetone is a ketone solvent with the formula C₃H₆O, while acetonitrile is a nitrile solvent with the formula C₂H₃N.

 

Chemical Differences

Property Acetonitrile Acetone
Chemical Formula C₂H₃N C₃H₆O
Chemical Class Nitrile Ketone
Boiling Point 81.6 °C 56 °C
Polarity Highly polar Polar
Common Uses Chromatography solvent Cleaning and degreasing solvent

 

Chemical Structure Differences:

Acetone, with the chemical formula C3H6O, is classified as a ketone. Its structure consists of three carbon atoms bonded together with oxygen placed in the middle. Acetonitrile, on the other hand, has a chemical formula of CH3CN and belongs to the nitrile functional group. Its structure consists of a methyl group bonded to a nitrile group, which is composed of a carbon triple-bonded to a nitrogen atom.

 

Applications and Toxicity Differences

 

Category Acetone Acetonitrile
Applications Widely used as solvent for chemicals, plastics, resins, fibers, pharmaceuticals; also as nail polish remover, paint thinner, and cleaning agent. Mainly used as solvent in organic synthesis and chromatography; key mobile phase in HPLC for separation and analysis.
Toxicity Lower toxicity, mild health risks; may cause skin/respiratory/eye irritation with prolonged exposure. Higher toxicity, hazardous substance; may damage CNS, liver, kidneys, and is a potential carcinogen.

 

 

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Gneebio Product Packaging

 

Packaging Type Net Weight
Steel Drum 160 kg
ISO Tank 20–22 MT
IBC Tank 800–1000 kg

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