nitromethane

from The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48

Nitromethane \Ni`tro*meth"ane\, n. [Nitro- + methane.] (Chem.)
   A nitro derivative of methane ({CH3.NO2}), obtained as a
   mobile liquid; -- called also {nitrocarbol}. It has been used
   as a rocket fuel and as a gasoline additive to add power to
   the fuel, especially in racing cars.
   [1913 Webster]