Description
TCC’s Benzyl Cyanide (abbreviated BnCN) is a toxic, colorless to pale yellow aromatic liquid organic compound that is a precursor to several derivatives. Its chemical formula is C6H5CH2CN. It is produced by the reaction of benzyl chloride with sodium cyanide.
The compound’s most important reactions involve the “active methylene group”, which is readily functionalized following deprotonation.
BnCN is used in the production of phenobarbital and other amphetamines as well as in organic synthesis in other pharmaceutical and industrial applications.