N,N-Dimethylaminobutane (DMBA)

N,N-Dimethyl-n-butylamine (DMBA), CAS 927-62-8, is a medium-chain tertiary amine characterized by a straight $n$-butyl group and two methyl groups attached to the nitrogen atom. This clear, volatile liquid is utilized as a versatile chemical intermediate and a powerful base/catalyst. Its balance of volatility, basicity, and lipophilicity (fat solubility) makes it particularly useful in organic synthesis and polymer production.

Basic Information of DMBA

CAS No.:	927-62-8
EC No.:	213-156-1
Linear Formula:	C6H15N
Molecular Weight:	101.19
Appearance:	Colorless, clear, volatile liquid
Odor:	Strong, characteristic amine odor
Melting Point:	-60 °C
Boiling Point:	93.3 °C750 mm Hg(lit.)
Density:	0.721 g/mL at 25 °C(lit.)
Solubility:	Slightly soluble in water; miscible with ethanol, ether, and other organic solvents.
Flash Point:	25 °F
RIDADR:	UN 2733 3/PG 2
Chemical Structure:

Application Overview

N,N-Dimethyl-n-butylamine is employed in high-performance applications where its specific chain length and tertiary amine functionality are leveraged:

• Polyurethane and Urethane Catalysis: DMBA functions as a crucial tertiary amine catalyst in the manufacture of polyurethane foams and elastomers. Its intermediate chain length provides an excellent balance, promoting both the gelling (chain extension) and blowing reactions, which is key for achieving desirable physical properties in the final polymer.

• Quaternary Ammonium Compound (Quat) Precursor: It is a fundamental building block for creating specialized quaternary ammonium salts. These derivatives are used as textile auxiliaries, softeners, antistatic agents, and corrosion inhibitors with improved solubility in organic media due to the butyl chain.

• Pharmaceutical and Agrochemical Synthesis: DMBA is utilized as a highly specific reagent or neutralizing base in the synthesis of certain active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and agrochemical intermediates where steric hindrance and volatility must be precisely managed.

• Acid Gas Removal/Scrubbing: Its basicity and relatively high boiling point make it or its derivatives suitable for use in certain solvent systems designed for the absorption and removal of acidic gases (H₂S, CO₂) in industrial gas streams.

Hazards Classification

• GHS Classification: Flammable Liquid (GHS02), Acute Toxicity (GHS06), Corrosive (GHS05)

• Hazard Statements: Highly flammable liquid and vapor; harmful if swallowed, in contact with skin or if inhaled; causes severe skin burns and eye damage.

• UN Number: UN 2733

• Hazard Class: 3 (Flammable Liquids)

• Packing Group: II