3-Fluorobenzonitrile stands out as an organic compound valued in chemical synthesis and manufacturing. With a clear molecular structure based on the benzene ring, this material incorporates a fluorine atom at the meta position, giving it unique reactivity compared to unsubstituted benzonitrile. The molecular formula reads C7H4FN, and its molecular weight reaches 121.11 g/mol. Recognized by its chemical structure—a cyanide group attached to a three-position fluorinated aromatic ring—3-Fluorobenzonitrile has gained traction in research, industry, and material sciences. The HS Code for international trade and transport of this compound typically falls under 2926909090, a broader category for nitrile-organic derivatives, flagging import, export, and regulatory tracking.
In practice, 3-Fluorobenzonitrile usually comes as a colorless or pale yellow solid, often seen in the form of flakes, powder, or crystalline pearls depending on processing and packaging methods. Under standard conditions, the compound holds a melting point of about 44°C and a boiling point climbing to 191-193°C. The density registers close to 1.17 g/cm³ at room temperature. For anyone working hands-on with this material, the distinctive aroma common to many nitriles reminds you of its potency and demands careful storage. Its solubility tilts toward organic solvents such as ethanol, ether, and chloroform, while its water solubility stays relatively low.
The placement of fluorine directly influences the electron balance within the aromatic ring, changing how 3-Fluorobenzonitrile reacts under various conditions. This small tweak in molecular design makes a big difference in how it behaves as a building block for manufacturing dyes, pharmaceuticals, and agrochemicals. From my own lab experience, the material's stability means it won’t just decompose unless exposed to strong acids, bases, or high heat for prolonged periods. Its crystalline structure allows for consistent dosing in precise synthetic steps, letting chemists trust their outcomes batch after batch.
Suppliers list 3-Fluorobenzonitrile with solid purity standards—usually above 98%—to fit laboratory and industrial protocols. Product comes packed in sealed drums or amber glass bottles to cut down contamination and avoid degradation. As a raw material, this compound mixes into chemical reactions that need strong nucleophilic addition or substitution on aromatics. The powdered or flaked solid form pours without much clumping, and storage at cool, dry conditions preserves its integrity for months or years. Exposure to moisture or light accelerates breakdown, which explains the standard advice around airtight containers and minimal physical handling.
Any chemist worth their salt treats 3-Fluorobenzonitrile with respect. This material holds risk potential through inhalation, skin contact, and accidental ingestion, as typical with many aromatic nitriles. Exposure can lead to irritation of the skin, eyes, and upper respiratory tract. Nitrile groups, in general, bring toxicity concerns, so gloves, goggles, and lab ventilation become essential non-negotiables. SDS documents outline immediate first aid steps and designate this substance as hazardous under GHS labeling—this isn’t the sort of chemical a novice should handle without supervision. Waste handling needs to comply with local environmental and safety rules to prevent harm during disposal or spillage.
3-Fluorobenzonitrile finds itself at the start of countless synthesis schemes. At its core, the combination of a reactive nitrile group and a fluorinated aromatic ring offers unique leverage for making advanced molecules. I’ve seen it play a role in producing specialty pharmaceuticals where the fluorine atom alters metabolic stability or bioactivity. Crop protection chemicals often use this as a stepping stone toward herbicides and fungicides. In the materials sector, its chemical resilience forms part of specialty polymers and liquid crystals, powering tech advances in display screens. Each of these applications needs reliability—batch uniformity leads to predictable synthesis, while clearly documented specs help maintain trust with end users relying on tight quality control.
In the greater scheme, the key to maximizing 3-Fluorobenzonitrile’s utility comes down to mindful sourcing, handling, and disposal. Since it fits into sensitive chemical and pharmaceutical pathways, producers need to build traceability and proper documentation into every shipment. End users—whether researchers or plant operators—should never skip standard operating procedures. I’ve found that investing in good storage containers, periodic equipment checks, and regular safety training pays off by minimizing accident rates and potential product loss. Emphasizing environmental safeguards in waste management not only keeps operations legal but also limits the impact on local water and soil. By balancing technical capabilities with workplace caution, industries can safely unlock the true value of this fluorinated benzonitrile.
