Ethyleneimine

Ethyleneimine, also known as aziridine, is a colorless liquid with a distinct ammonia-like odor. Its chemical formula is C2H5N. Ethyleneimine is a highly reactive cyclic amine due to the strain within its three-membered ring. This reactivity makes it a valuable intermediate in the synthesis of various chemicals, including polymers, pharmaceuticals, and agricultural chemicals. It readily undergoes ring-opening polymerization to form polyethyleneimine, a water-soluble polymer with numerous applications. Ethyleneimine is soluble in water and many organic solvents. Due to its high reactivity and toxicity, it is handled with extreme caution. It is a known mutagen and carcinogen, and direct contact or inhalation can cause severe irritation and burns to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract. Industrial production of ethyleneimine typically involves the reaction of 2-aminoethanol with sulfuric acid followed by treatment with a strong base. It is stored and transported under strict safety protocols.