Acetonitrile is a toxic, colorless liquid with an ether-like odor and a sweet, burnt taste. It is also known as cyanomethane, ethyl nitrile, ethanenitrile, methanecarbonitrile, acetronitrile cluster and methyl cyanide.
Acetonitrile is used to make pharmaceuticals, perfumes, rubber products, pesticides, acrylic nail removers and batteries. It is also used to extract fatty acids from animal and vegetable oils. Before working with acetonitrile, employee training should be provided on safe handling and storage procedures.