How Are Nitriles Manufactured Most Commonly?

 We all know that most of the functional groups in Organic Chemistry are formed by just replacing the H from the -COOH by another molecules or atoms. In the case of Nitriles, the structural formula is -C≡N which is somewhat like the one stated above (formed by replacing the ions attacthed to -C). 

1. HEATING OF CARBOXYLIC ACIDS

The normal process of forming acrylonitriles are by heating carboxylic acids. This process is called ammoxidation. In ammoxidation, propylene is added to the reactor along with ammonia and air (for the requirement of oxygen) along with some catalysts at 410 - 500 degree Celcius in a proper equilibrium set up.

2CH3−CH=CH2 + 2 NH3 + 3 O2 → 2 CH2=CH–C≡N + 6 H2O

2.HEATING OF AMIDES

Another easy method of manufacturing of Nitriles is by heating amides which are another carboxylic acid inherited functional group. The heating goes under the presence of phosphorous pentaoxide compounds.

NOTE: In the processes, fats and oils are also added just to increase the softness of the chemical compound for the suitability in different industrial sectors.