Acetonitrile formulations for nail polish remover, despite its toxicity. At least two cases have been reported of accidental poisoning of young children by acetonitrile-based nail polish remover, one of which was fatal. Acetone and ethyl acetate are often preferred as safer for domestic use, and acetonitrile has been banned in cosmetic products in the European Economic Area since March 2000. In common with other nitriles, acetonitrile can be metabolised in microsomes, especially in the liver, to produce hydrogen cyanide, as was first shown by Pozzani "et al." in 1959. The first step in this pathway is the oxidation of acetonitrile to
Nitroethane give an oxazoline, which protonates to give a cationic surfactant. Like some other nitrated organic compounds, nitroethane is also used as a fuel additive and a precursor to explosives. Nitroethane is a useful solvent for polymers such as polystyrene and is particularly useful for dissolving cyanoacrylate adhesives. In niche applications, it has been used as a component in artificial nail remover and in overhead ceiling sealant sprays. Nitroethane has been used as a chemical feedstock in clandestine laboratories for synthesis of controlled substances such as amphetamines. Nitroethane is suspected to cause genetic damage and be harmful to the nervous system.