| Formula / Notation | (C3H3N)n |
|---|---|
| CAS Number | 25014-41-9 |
| Molecular Weight | Variable (polymer) |
| Melting Point | Decomposes (no clear mp) |
| Boiling Point | Decomposes >300 °C |
| Density | 1.17 g/cm³ |
| Solubility | Insoluble in water |
| Appearance | white to pale yellow fibre or solid |
| Also Known As | PAN; Orlon; Acrilan; Creslan; acrylic fibre precursor |
| Category | Polymers & Plastics |
What is Polyacrylonitrile?
Polyacrylonitrile (PAN) is a synthetic semicrystalline polymer resin produced by free radical polymerisation of acrylonitrile. It is predominantly used as a precursor for carbon fibre manufacture — PAN fibres are stabilised in air at 200–300 °C then carbonised at 1000–3000 °C in an inert atmosphere to produce high-strength carbon fibres. As an acrylic textile fibre (used in blends), it provides warmth and softness similar to wool.
Formula & Notation
IUPAC Name: poly(acrylonitrile)
Other Names / Synonyms: PAN; Orlon; Acrilan; Creslan; acrylic fibre precursor
Properties & Characteristics
Physical Data
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Melting Point | Decomposes (no clear mp) |
| Boiling Point | Decomposes >300 °C |
| Density | 1.17 g/cm³ |
| Molecular Weight | Variable (polymer) |
| Solubility | Insoluble in water |
| Appearance | white to pale yellow fibre or solid |
Uses & Applications
Safety Information
Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.
Key Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
Polyacrylonitrile (PAN) is a synthetic semicrystalline polymer resin produced by free radical polymerisation of acrylonitrile. It is predominantly used as a precursor for carbon fibre manufacture — PAN fibres are stabilised in air at 200–300 °C then carbonised at 1000–3000 °C in an inert atmosphere to produce high-strength carbon fibres. As an acrylic textile fibre (used in blends), it provides warmth and softness similar to wool.
Carbon fibre precursor (primary use — over 90% of carbon fibre is PAN-based). Acrylic textile fibres (sweaters, upholstery). Filtration membranes. Reverse osmosis membranes. High-performance composites.
Releases toxic hydrogen cyanide (HCN) and acrylonitrile when burned or pyrolysed — serious fire hazard. Acrylonitrile monomer is a suspected carcinogen. Handle fibres with gloves to avoid skin irritation. Consult SDS before processing.
The formula or notation for Polyacrylonitrile is: (C3H3N)n