NDELA

NDELA stands for N,N-diethyl-p-phenylenediamine. It is an organic compound commonly used as a colorimetric reagent in analytical chemistry. NDELA is primarily employed in the determination of residual chlorine in water. When chlorine is present, NDELA reacts with it to form a stable, colored compound, typically a pinkish-purple or magenta hue. The intensity of this color is directly proportional to the concentration of chlorine, allowing for quantitative measurement using a spectrophotometer or colorimeter.

The reaction mechanism involves the oxidation of NDELA by the residual chlorine. This oxidation leads to the formation of a free radical that then dimerizes to produce a more complex colored species. The sensitivity of the NDELA test makes it suitable for detecting even low levels of chlorine, which is crucial for ensuring water safety and disinfection effectiveness. It is widely used in water treatment facilities, swimming pool testing, and various environmental monitoring applications.

Beyond chlorine detection, NDELA can also be used in other analytical applications, such as the determination of other oxidizing agents. Its ease of use and reliable results have made it a staple in many laboratories. However, NDELA is considered a potentially hazardous substance and should be handled with appropriate safety precautions.