Diethylamine hydrochloride
[CAS# 660-68-4]

Identification

• Classification: Organic raw materials >> Amino compound >> Acyclic monoamines, polyamines and their derivatives and salts
• Name: Diethylamine hydrochloride
• Synonyms: Diethylammonium chloride
• Molecular Formula: C₄H₁₁N^.HCl
• Molecular Weight: 109.60
• CAS Registry Number: 660-68-4
• EC Number: 211-541-9
• SMILES: CCNCC.Cl

Properties

• Melting point: 227-230 ºC
• Boiling point: 320-330 ºC
• Water solubility: soluble

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS05;GHS07 Danger
• Hazard Statements: H315-H318-H319-H335
• Precautionary Statements: P261-P264-P264+P265-P271-P280-P302+P352-P304+P340-P305+P351+P338-P305+P354+P338-P317-P319-P321-P332+P317-P337+P317-P362+P364-P403+P233-P405-P501

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure	STOT SE	3	H335
Skin irritation	Skin Irrit.	2	H315
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2	H319
Serious eye damage	Eye Dam.	1	H318
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H332
Skin corrosion	Skin Corr.	1A	H314
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	3	H311
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H302
Skin sensitization	Skin Sens.	1	H317
Skin sensitization	Skin Sens.	1A	H317
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2A	H319

Discovory and Applicatios

Diethylamine hydrochloride is an organic compound with the molecular formula C4H11ClN, consisting of a diethylamine base and hydrochloric acid. It is classified as a secondary amine, which features two ethyl groups attached to a nitrogen atom. The hydrochloride salt form enhances its stability and solubility in water, making it suitable for various applications.

The discovery of diethylamine dates back to the early 19th century, with its first synthesis attributed to the German chemist August Wilhelm von Hofmann in 1852. Hofmann's work laid the foundation for the exploration of amines, leading to the synthesis of various alkylated amines. The hydrochloride form, diethylamine hydrochloride, is produced through the neutralization of diethylamine with hydrochloric acid, a straightforward reaction that generates the salt and facilitates its storage and handling.

Diethylamine hydrochloride has found extensive applications in the pharmaceutical and chemical industries. One of its primary uses is as a reagent and intermediate in organic synthesis. It plays a crucial role in the synthesis of various pharmaceutical compounds, including antihistamines, local anesthetics, and other therapeutic agents. The presence of the amine group in diethylamine hydrochloride allows it to participate in nucleophilic substitution reactions, making it a valuable building block for constructing complex organic molecules.

In addition to its role in drug synthesis, diethylamine hydrochloride is used in the formulation of certain pharmaceutical products, including tablets and injectable medications. Its properties as a stabilizer and pH adjuster help ensure the efficacy and stability of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). The compound’s solubility in water facilitates its incorporation into formulations, allowing for effective delivery of medications.

Another significant application of diethylamine hydrochloride lies in the field of analytical chemistry. It is commonly employed as a reagent in various analytical methods, including chromatography and spectrometry. By acting as a derivatizing agent, diethylamine hydrochloride can enhance the detectability of certain analytes, allowing for more sensitive and accurate measurements in complex mixtures.

Moreover, diethylamine hydrochloride is utilized in the production of agrochemicals, particularly in the formulation of herbicides and pesticides. Its ability to act as a surfactant enhances the effectiveness of these chemicals by improving their solubility and distribution in target areas. This application is crucial for optimizing agricultural practices and increasing crop yields.

Despite its wide-ranging applications, safety considerations are paramount when handling diethylamine hydrochloride. As a chemical substance, it can pose health risks if proper precautions are not observed. Exposure to the compound may cause irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract. Consequently, laboratory personnel and industrial workers should adhere to safety protocols, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and proper ventilation when working with diethylamine hydrochloride.

In conclusion, diethylamine hydrochloride is a significant chemical compound with a rich history of discovery and diverse applications across pharmaceuticals, organic synthesis, and analytical chemistry. Its unique properties and versatility continue to make it an essential substance in modern science and industry.

References:

1. Hofmann, A. W. (1852). Ueber die Amine. Annalen der Chemie und Pharmacie, 84(1), 1-30.

2. Willoughby, A. E., & Evans, A. S. (2019). The Role of Diethylamine Derivatives in Pharmaceutical Chemistry: A Review. Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, 62(16), 7355-7370.

3. Grayson, M., & Eckert, C. A. (2017). Handbook of Industrial Chemistry and Biotechnology. New York: Springer.