Acetonitrile, CAS 75-05-8, is a polar aprotic solvent used in chemical synthesis, extraction, chromatography and other industrial processes. Public records identify it as C2H3N with a molecular weight of 41.05 g/mol. Commercial labels such as industrial grade and HPLC grade describe different performance expectations, but the label alone is not a complete specification.
Start with the intended use
Industrial synthesis may prioritize assay, water, acidity, color and predictable batch consistency. Chromatographic work can be much more sensitive to UV absorbance, particulate contamination, evaporation residue and trace impurities. A buyer should define the analytical wavelength, detector, method sensitivity and baseline requirements before assuming an HPLC label is sufficient.
Industrial grade is not one universal standard
Industrial acetonitrile specifications vary by producer and application. A headline purity of ≥99.9% does not automatically describe moisture, acidity, residue or organic impurity profile. Buyers should compare representative specifications and recent COAs on equivalent methods. For moisture-sensitive reactions, water can be more important than a small difference in total assay.
HPLC and analytical requirements
HPLC users should request the supplier’s actual analytical specification rather than relying on marketing language. Relevant items may include UV transmission or absorbance at specified wavelengths, gradient suitability, residue after evaporation, water, acidity or alkalinity, and particulate control. Acceptance limits must match the validated method and instrument, not a generic internet table.
Questions to include in an inquiry
- Is the material for synthesis, extraction, routine HPLC or a high-sensitivity method?
- Which wavelength and detector will be used?
- What water and residue limits are required?
- Is batch-to-batch UV performance critical?
- What package size and closure fit the laboratory or plant?
- Which destination documents and shipment route are required?
Use samples correctly
A sample can support method testing, but it should represent the proposed commercial grade and package. Confirm whether the supplier can maintain the same specification for future batches. Record lot numbers and test conditions so that sample approval can be connected to commercial receiving criteria.
Review the Xinchen Acetonitrile product page and state the grade, test requirements, quantity and destination when requesting a quotation.
Reference sources
Identity and physical-property information can be checked through PubChem CID 6342. Workplace safety information is available in the NIOSH Pocket Guide. Final grade approval must rely on current supplier specifications, batch COA and the buyer’s validated method.