Acetamide
Acetamide (ethanamide, CH3CONH2) is the simplest amide derived from acetic acid. It forms colourless, hygroscopic crystals that are readily soluble in water. Industry uses it as a solvent and plasticiser and as an intermediate in organic synthesis. It is classified under GHS as suspected of causing cancer, so procurement and laboratory teams should handle it with appropriate controls and review the SDS.
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Acetamide
We manufacture and supply Acetamide. See specifications, pack sizes and pricing, or ask us for a quote.
What is acetamide and how is it identified?
Acetamide, IUPAC name ethanamide, is the amide of acetic acid, with the formula CH3CONH2 and a molar mass of about 59.07 g/mol. Its CAS number is 60-35-5 and its EC number is 200-473-5. At room temperature it is a colourless, hygroscopic crystalline solid. It melts at roughly 79–81 °C and boils at around 221 °C. Technical grades often have a characteristic 'mousy' odour, which is generally attributed to impurities. Acetamide is freely soluble in water and in many polar organic solvents.
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What is acetamide used for?
Molten acetamide is an effective solvent for a wide range of organic and inorganic substances, which makes it useful in specialist industrial processes. It is also used as a plasticiser and as a building block or intermediate in organic synthesis. In the laboratory it serves as a reagent and model compound for studying amide chemistry.
What should buyers and regulatory teams check?
Under GHS and EU CLP, acetamide is classified as Carcinogenicity Category 2 (H351: suspected of causing cancer). IARC lists it in Group 2B. When sourcing, request a current SDS and a batch-specific CoA showing assay and moisture content. Because the material is hygroscopic, specify suitable packaging and storage conditions. Confirm the substance's registration and listing status under the relevant frameworks, such as REACH in the EU/UK or TSCA in the US, for your intended use and volume. Do not confuse acetamide with N,N-dimethylacetamide (DMAC), a different substance with its own regulatory profile.
Related concepts
Acetamide is closely linked to acetic acid, its parent carboxylic acid, and to amides in general. Its N-substituted derivatives include N-methylacetamide and N,N-dimethylacetamide (DMAC). Acetonitrile can be obtained from acetamide by dehydration. For safe handling, consult the GHS classification and the SDS.
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