Azobisisobutylonitrile
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
| AIBN | |
|---|---|
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| General | |
| Systematic name | 2,2′-Azobis(2-methylpropionitrile) |
| Other names | Azobisisobutyronitrile Azobisisobutylonitrile AIBN |
| Molecular formula | C8H12N4 |
| SMILES | N#CC(C)(C)N=NC(C)(C)C#N |
| Molar mass | 164.21 g/mol |
| Appearance | white crystalline |
| CAS number | 78-67-1 |
| Properties | |
| Density and phase | ? |
| Solubility in water | ? |
| Other solvents e.g. ethanol, acetone |
? |
| Melting point | 103–105 °C |
| Boiling point | ? °C |
| Structure | |
| Dipole moment | ? D (gas) |
| Hazards | |
| MSDS | External MSDS |
| EU classification | ? |
| Flash point | ? |
| Supplementary data page | |
| Thermodynamic data | Phase behaviour liquid |
| Except where noted otherwise, data are given for materials in their standard state (at 25°C, 100 kPa) Infobox disclaimer and references |
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Azobisisobutyronitrile is a toxic compound often used as a foamer in plastics and rubber and as a radical initiator. It is commonly known as AIBN. Its most common chemical reaction is one of decomposition, eliminating a molecule of nitrogen gas to form two 2-cyanoprop-2-yl radicals:
These radicals can be used to to initiate free radical polymerizations. For instance a mixture of styrene and maleic anhydride in toluene will react if heated very slowly to form the polystyrene polymer unless an initiator such a AIBN is present. Another example of free radical polymerization is the hydrohalogenation of alkenes.
AIBN is safer to use than benzoyl peroxide (another radical initiator) because the risk of explosion is far smaller. However, it is considered a flammable solid. It is soluble in methanol & ethanol, but insoluble in water. It can explode if dissolved in acetone. AIBN is highly toxic. Wear a respirator/dust mask, protective gloves, & safety glasses when handling AIBN.
[edit] See also
- 1,1'-Azobis(cyclohexanecarbonitrile) or ABCN is another free radical initiator
