2,4-Difluorobenzonitrile belongs to the nitrile family, recognized by the presence of a cyano group attached directly to an aromatic ring with two fluorine atoms in the 2 and 4 positions. The structure offers a unique set of properties, making this compound important for chemical manufacturing and research. The formula, C7H3F2N, signals a compact molecule with two electronegative fluorine atoms that change both the electronic environment and reactivity of the aromatic ring. The function as a raw material for synthesis has driven its widespread use across pharmaceutical, agrochemical, and specialty chemical industries.
The appearance of 2,4-Difluorobenzonitrile generally falls into a colorless or pale-yellow solid, often presenting in flakes, powder, or sometimes crystalline forms, depending on specific production methods. Density typically measures around 1.26 g/cm³, a reflection of the aromatic core and additional atoms. The melting point hovers near 44 to 46°C. Handling brings the expectation of distinctive physical stability, as the solid does not easily react with moisture yet maintains chemical activity under controlled laboratory conditions. Some batches arrive as fine powder, others as larger flakes; vendors may adjust texture based on downstream application needs, but the chemical identity stays constant. No pearl or liquid form occurs naturally at room temperature for this compound, and conversion into solution requires solvents like acetonitrile, DMSO, or acetone.
From an organic synthesis viewpoint, the nitrile functional group attached at the para position of this difluorinated benzene ring creates a platform for further functional group interconversion. The presence of the two fluorine atoms brings a high degree of electron withdrawal, not only slowing some reactions but also opening new paths for nucleophilic aromatic substitution—a feature not found in non-fluorinated analogues. Synthesis commonly involves halogen exchange or direct fluorination routes, driving up yields for pharmaceutical intermediates. Anyone who spent time in a synthetic chemistry lab recognizes the value of well-defined starting materials like 2,4-Difluorobenzonitrile for accessing complex molecules efficiently.
The product purity varies based on source and purification, but most technical data sheets indicate a chemical purity greater than 98%. Color, melting point, and infrared spectral data provide a reliable check for identity. Bulk shipments will match these specifications with detailed certificate-of-analysis documents for each lot. HS Code, which regulates customs tracking, usually falls under 2926909090—marked for organic nitrile compounds. Beyond global commerce, this code signals compliance with hazardous goods transport rules and contributes to safety in logistics.
Practical chemistry experience underscores the importance of treating 2,4-Difluorobenzonitrile with respect. The material poses health risks if inhaled, ingested, or absorbed through skin contact. Its volatility remains low, so dust exposure is the primary route for workplace risk. Direct contact leads to irritation, and the compound presents acute toxic effects when improper handling occurs in poorly ventilated spaces. Material safety data sheets recommend use of gloves, glasses, and dust masks when dealing with large amounts. On the reactivity scale, the chemical does not ignite easily, but it should not mix with strong oxidizers or acids. Waste disposal calls for incineration in licensed facilities, underlining the need for chemical stewardship. In research labs, these kinds of raw materials always stay contained and well-labeled, with emergency procedures ready in case of spills.
Chemists rely on 2,4-Difluorobenzonitrile as a building block to produce multiple high-value products. For pharmaceuticals, it leads to the formation of intermediates that become active drug molecules. Agrochemical companies tap into its structure for herbicides and plant growth regulators, counting on the fluoroaromatic core for biological activity against pests or weeds. Material scientists investigate derivatives for advanced polymers, coatings, or specialty electronic materials. In my work developing new synthetic routes to complex molecules, using pure, well-characterized intermediates like this one always cuts down troubleshooting and unpredictable results.
Falls under the aromatic nitrile family: C7H3F2N for the formula, 139.1 g/mol for the molecular weight. No two compounds give exactly the same reactivity profile, so knowing the fluorine positions becomes critical for downstream chemistry. Structure shows a benzene ring with –CN at position 1, fluorine atoms sitting at the 2 and 4 positions, simplifying identification by carbon NMR and mass spectrometry. In synthetic practice, this base structure often provides resistance to metabolic degradation in pharmaceuticals, a trait prized for making medications that last longer in the body.
Manufacturers and researchers focus on minimizing worker risk and broader impacts through personal protective equipment, adequate exhaust systems, and strict adherence to hazardous materials transport rules. Those of us who have worked with fluorinated aromatics appreciate the need for closed handling systems and careful waste management due to persistent, potentially bioaccumulative byproducts. Ongoing improvements in production—tighter process control, greener solvent choices, recovery and recycling of unused material—offer a path toward safer chemical industry practices. Regulatory authorities keep close tabs through routine audits and environmental disclosure, making full transparency in handling, shipping, and disposal a must for anyone sourcing this material.
