What Is Dicyclohexylamine?
Dicyclohexylamine, an organic compound in the aliphatic amine family, consists of two cyclohexane rings bridged by a nitrogen atom. Its IUPAC name is N-cyclohexylcyclohexaneamine, with the chemical formula C12H23N. It has a molecular weight of 181.32, a melting point of -0.1°C, and boils at 255.8°C. This colorless or yellow liquid exhibits a fishy odor, has a density of 0.912 g/mL, and is designated by the CAS number 101-83-7. It dissolves easily in ethanol and acetone but is almost insoluble in water.
Uses of Dicyclohexylamine
Dicyclohexylamine finds extensive use as a rust inhibitor, in rubber chemicals, as a raw material for emulsion-type processing oils and surfactants, and in the manufacture of dyes and agricultural chemicals. It also acts as a catalyst in synthesizing flexible polyurethane foam and as an intermediate for various synthetic organic chemicals, including sulfenamide vulcanization accelerators and pharmaceuticals such as mucolytics, analgesics, and bronchodilators.
Properties of Dicyclohexylamine
This secondary amine features a pKa of 10.4, indicating a strong basicity in its aqueous solution. While stable under ordinary conditions, it may decompose upon exposure to light and should thus be stored away from high temperatures, direct sunlight, heat, flames, and static electricity. It reacts with strong oxidizers, necessitating careful storage to prevent mixing.
Types of Dicyclohexylamine
As both a research and industrial chemical, dicyclohexylamine is available in varied volumes for lab use—ranging from 5g to 500mL—and in larger quantities for industrial applications, such as 16 kg cans and 180 kg drums, catering to its diverse uses in rubber chemicals, emulsion-based processing oils, and rust prevention.
Other Information on Dicyclohexylamine
1. Synthesis of Dicyclohexylamine
Produced primarily through the hydrogenation of aniline with ruthenium or palladium catalysts, dicyclohexylamine can also be synthesized via the reductive amination of cyclohexanone, among other methods. Innovations include the use of niobic and tantalic acids to improve yield and the application of specific conditions and catalysts to enhance reaction efficiency.
2. Regulatory Information and Hazards
Classified as flammable with a flash point of 100℃, dicyclohexylamine is subject to stringent handling regulations due to its corrosive nature and potential health hazards, including toxicity upon ingestion or skin contact, inhalation harm, and risks to fertility and the nervous system upon prolonged exposure.