What Is Acetamide?
Acetamide, an odorless white or light yellow solid (powder or crystals), is an organic compound with the chemical formula CH3CONH2.
Transitioning from solid to liquid at 81°C, acetamide serves as an excellent solvent for various organic and inorganic compounds. It finds extensive use as a solvent in organic synthesis and as a peroxide stabilizer. Given its suspected carcinogenic nature, handling acetamide necessitates suitable protective gear and a well-ventilated space.
Notable reactions involving acetamide include hydrolysis, yielding ammonia and acetic acid. It is soluble in water and ethanol, yet almost insoluble in diethyl ether.
Acetamide is designated under the Industrial Safety and Health Law as Hazardous and Noxious Substance to be Labeled and Hazardous and Noxious Substance to be Notified. Additionally, it is classified as a Class 2 Designated Chemical Substance, Class 2 – No. 1 under the PRTR Law.
Uses of Acetamide
Primarily, acetamide is employed as a solvent in the synthesis of organic reagents, encompassing a broad range of agents such as oxidizing and reducing agents, condensing and halogenating agents, protectants, chiral substances, and organometallic reagents.
While solid at ambient conditions, acetamide melts into a solvent above 81°C, capable of dissolving a diverse array of compounds, thereby facilitating various organic synthesis applications.
Beyond its solvent properties, acetamide functions as a stabilizer for peroxides, known for their instability and high reactivity.
Properties of Acetamide
Acetamide, also referred to as ethanamide or methane carboxamide, exhibits high solubility in water, methanol, ethanol, and chloroform but is insoluble in ether.
| Chemical Formula | CH3CONH2 |
| English Name | Acetamide |
| CAS No. | 60-35-5 |
| Molecular Weight | 59.07 g/mol |
| Melting Point/Freezing Point | 81°C |
| Boiling Point | 222°C |
Other Information on Acetamide
1. Hazardousness of Acetamide
As per the Industrial Safety and Health Law, acetamide is identified as both a Hazardous and Noxious Substance to be Labeled and Hazardous and Noxious Substance to be Notified. Under the PRTR Law, it is classified as Class 2 Designated Chemical Substance and Class 2 – No. 1.
Risks associated with acetamide include its potential as a carcinogen, eye irritant, and negative effects on fertility or fetal development. Contact with skin or eyes may cause redness and pain.
2. Precautions for Use of Acetamide
Utilizing acetamide demands thorough safety checks and the use of appropriate protective equipment in a well-ventilated area. It is advisable to wear protective gloves, clothing, safety glasses, and masks before handling. If contact occurs, wash the area with water and soap, seeking medical advice if irritation persists.
Moreover, acetamide can combust under high heat, releasing irritating and corrosive gases, necessitating temperature control during use.
3. Deliquescence
Acetamide’s high water solubility means it can absorb moisture from the air, which may compromise its efficacy as a solvent in organic synthesis. It is recommended to store acetamide in an inert gas-filled container in a humidity-controlled environment to maintain stability.
4. Disposal Method
Given its toxicity, acetamide should not be disposed of into sewage systems. Disposal should be managed by certified waste disposal contractors, as per local regulations.