What Is Cyclohexylamine?
Cyclohexylamine is an organic compound classified as an aliphatic amine. Other names include aminocyclohexane, aminohexahydrobenzene, and hexahydroaniline.
Its CAS registration number is 108-91-8 and its chemical formula is C6H13N. One hydrogen on cyclohexane is replaced by an amino group.
Uses of Cyclohexylamine
The main uses of cyclohexylamine are as a can cleaner, rust inhibitor, pigment and dye, rubber chemicals, dyeing aid, insecticide, and antifreeze solution. In particular, it is used as a flushing aid in the printing ink industry.
Cyclohexylamine is also used as an intermediate raw material for various compounds such as pharmaceuticals, since it is a useful substance in organic synthetic chemistry.
Major substances synthesized from cyclohexylamine include sulfenamide vulcanization accelerators, the herbicide hexazinone, grease, and the artificial sweetener cyclohexylamine.
In pharmaceuticals, it is often used as a raw material for drugs such as mucolytics, analgesics, and bronchodilators.
Properties of Cyclohexylamine
Cyclohexylamine has a molecular weight of 99.17, a melting point of -17.7 °C, and a boiling point of 134.5 °C. It is a colorless to yellow liquid at room temperature. It has a strong fish or ammonia-like odor.
It has a density of 0.8627 g/mL and an acid dissociation constant pKa of 10.64. It is soluble in alcohols, ethers, ketones, esters, aliphatic hydrocarbons, and aromatic hydrocarbons (common organic solvents).
Types of Cyclohexylamine
Cyclohexylamine is sold as R&D reagent products and industrial chemicals. R&D reagent products are available in 25mL, 500mL, and other volumes that are easy to handle in the laboratory.
Often used as raw material for organic synthesis, these reagent products can usually be handled at room temperature.
As industrial chemicals, it is supplied in 15 kg cans or drums of around 170 kg.
It is used in rubber chemicals, dyes, pigments, rust inhibitors, and antifreeze solutions, and is available in large capacities to meet the demands of factories and other applications.
Other Information on Cyclohexylamine
1. Synthesis of Cyclohexylamine
The main methods for synthesizing cyclohexylamine include hydrogenation of aniline with nickel or cobalt and alkylation of cyclohexanol with ammonia.
2. Reactivity of Cyclohexylamine
Cyclohexylamine is a strong base and reacts violently with acids. It decomposes by heating or combustion, producing toxic and corrosive fumes such as nitrogen oxides.
These substances react violently with strong oxidizers, posing a fire hazard, and they attack aluminum, copper, and zinc. When storing the product, it is necessary to avoid mixing with these substances.
3. Safety Information for Cyclohexylamine
Cyclohexylamine is toxic by ingestion, skin contact, and inhalation. It is a flammable liquid with a low flash point of 26.5 ºC, and at temperatures above 26.5 ºC, an explosive vapor mixture may be generated.