What to Specify When Buying Pyrazinecarbonitrile
Pyrazinecarbonitrile (2-cyanopyrazine, CAS 19847-12-2) is quoted against a small set of specification parameters, and because it is a moisture-sensitive liquid used in multi-step synthesis, purity and water content matter as much as the assay. This guide covers typical specifications, packaging, documentation and storage. For the underlying chemistry, see the pyrazinecarbonitrile technical overview.
Typical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Colorless liquid |
| Purity (GC) | 99.9% min |
| Moisture (K.F) | 0.1% max |
| Molecular formula | C5H3N3 |
| Molecular weight | 105.10 g/mol |
Why These Parameters Matter
- Appearance. A colorless liquid signals a clean product free of the coloured degradation products that can form on storage.
- GC purity. A minimum of 99.9% by gas chromatography leaves little room for isomers or unreacted starting material, which is important in multi-step synthesis.
- Moisture. Many downstream reactions are water-sensitive, so a 0.1% max limit is usually required; the Karl Fischer value is the standard control.
When the material is used as an analytical reference, buyers often also ask for identity confirmation (for example GC-MS or NMR) in addition to the routine specification.
Packaging and Storage
Pyrazinecarbonitrile is a liquid and is supplied in the packaging size that fits the order, typically small drums for fine-chemical quantities. It should be stored cool and dry with the container tightly closed, away from heat, ignition sources, strong acids, bases and oxidants. Because it is a nitrile, storage areas should be well ventilated and follow the controls in the safety data sheet.
Documentation: COA and SDS
A reliable supplier provides a batch certificate of analysis (COA) that reports appearance, GC purity and moisture, together with an up-to-date safety data sheet (SDS/MSDS). For customers using the material as a reference standard, the COA and, where relevant, a traceable analysis report are part of the quality package.
Supplier Qualification Checklist
- Confirm whether the supplier manufactures or trades the material, and the country of origin.
- Check that the quoted grade and specification match the COA you will receive.
- Confirm consistent batch-to-batch GC purity and moisture, not just a single lot.
- Verify lead time, packaging and shipping terms for your production schedule.
- Confirm that COA and SDS are supplied and that the material is transported under appropriate controls.
Frequently Asked Questions
What purity of pyrazinecarbonitrile is typical?
Fine-chemical grades are commonly specified at 99.9% min GC purity with moisture 0.1% max, supplied as a colorless liquid.
Why is moisture controlled so tightly?
Pyrazinecarbonitrile is used in water-sensitive reactions and as a reference standard, so a 0.1% max Karl Fischer moisture limit protects both reaction performance and analytical accuracy.
Does it come with a COA and SDS?
Yes. A batch COA covering appearance, GC purity and moisture, plus an up-to-date SDS, should be supplied.
Where can I buy pyrazinecarbonitrile?
PolyBlueChem supplies pyrazinecarbonitrile (CAS 19847-12-2) with COA and MSDS. Contact our team for specifications, packaging and a quotation.
References
- PubChem Compound Summary for pyrazinecarbonitrile (CAS 19847-12-2).
- Supplier specification sheets for fine-chemical-grade pyrazinecarbonitrile.
- Guidance on handling nitrile intermediates and controlling moisture in process chemistry.
Disclaimer: This article is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute technical, regulatory or safety advice. Always refer to the current safety data sheet and applicable regulations before handling this material.