Succinonitrile, also butanedinitrile, is a nitrile, with the formula of C<sub>2</sub>H<sub>4</sub>(CN)<sub>2</sub>. It is an odorless, colorless to light brown crystal or colourless waxy solid which melts at 58 ðC.
Succinonitrile is produced by the addition of hydrogen cyanide to acrylonitrile (hydrocyanation):
Hydrogenation of succinonitrile yields putrescine (1,4-diaminobutane).
Succinonitrile may find applications as the "solvent" (while still in its waxy state) in lithium batteries.
Like most nitriles, succinonitrile is toxic and can release cyanide ions in the body. NIOSH recommends a TWA exposure limit of 6 ppm (20 mg/mó).