Physical Properties
- Appearance: Colorless gas or liquid with an ammonia-like odor at high concentrations; fishy odor at low concentrations.
- Melting Point: -96°C.
- Boiling Point: 7°C.
- Density: 0.680 g/cm³ (liquid at 0°C).
- Solubility: Highly soluble in water, ethanol, and ether.
- Vapor Pressure: 16.97 psi at 55°C.
- Odor: Ammonia-like at high concentrations, fishy at low concentrations.
Chemical Properties
- Basicity: Weakly basic, forms salts with acids.
- Reactivity: Highly flammable; reacts violently with strong oxidizers.
- Stability: Stable in aqueous solutions but highly flammable in pure form.
Uses
- Rubber Industry: Used as a rubber vulcanization accelerator.
- Pharmaceuticals: Used in the synthesis of antibiotics and other drugs.
- Agriculture: Used as an intermediate for pesticides such as dimethoate and methomyl.
- Chemical Synthesis: Used in the production of N,N-dimethylformamide and other organic intermediates.
- Textiles: Used as a solvent and intermediate in textile processing.
Safety Information
- Toxicity: Toxic; inhalation of high concentrations can cause respiratory irritation and damage.
- Health Hazards: Causes severe irritation to eyes, skin, and mucous membranes.
- Flammability: Highly flammable; forms explosive mixtures with air.
- Storage: Store in a cool, well-ventilated area, away from oxidizers and sources of ignition.
- Safety Phrases:
- S16: Keep away from sources of ignition.
- S26: In case of contact with eyes, rinse immediately with plenty of water and seek medical advice.
- S45: In case of accident or if you feel unwell, seek medical advice immediately.
Production Methods
- Synthesis: Produced by the catalytic amination of methanol and ammonia at high temperature and pressure.