It should be redistd at atmospheric pressure then distilled under a vacuum to remove final traces of HCN from the residue. Note that the residue from the first distiln may be difficult to remove from the flask and should be treated with conc HNO₃ then H₂O and finally hot EtOH (CARE). Allyl cyanide (CAS NO. ) has an onion-like odour and is stable to heat. It forms a complex with AlCl₃ (2:2) m 41 °C, and (3:2) m 120 °C.

All operations should be done in an efficient fume hood as the liquid is flammable and highly toxic.