Dinitromethane is an organic compound with the chemical formula CH2(NO2)2.[2] Purified dinitromethane is a colorless liquid with a weak pleasant odor. It is relatively stable at room temperature and can be safely stored for months at 0 °C.[1]
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| Names | |
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| Preferred IUPAC name Dinitromethane | |
| Identifiers | |
3D model (JSmol) | |
| ChemSpider | |
PubChem CID | |
CompTox Dashboard (EPA) | |
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| Properties | |
| CH2N2O4 | |
| Molar mass | 106.037 g·mol−1 |
| Boiling point | 39 to 40 °C (102 to 104 °F; 312 to 313 K) (at 2 mmHg)[1] |
Except where otherwise noted, data are given for materials in their standard state (at 25 °C [77 °F], 100 kPa). | |
Synthesis
The potassium salt of dinitromethanide, KCH(NO2)2, was first prepared by Villiers in 1884 by reduction of bromodinitromethane.[3] Hydrogen fluoride and the potassium salt of dinitromethane react in diethyl ether to form dinitromethane.[1] Free dinitromethane was previously understood to be a pale, yellow oil that decomposed rapidly at ambient temperatures.[4]
Dinitromethane should not be confused with methylene dinitrate (CH2(ONO2)2), which is produced as a byproduct in the production of the explosive RDX.[5]
Safety
The transportation of dinitromethane is forbidden by the U.S. Department of Transportation.[6]