ethyleneamine

Ethyleneamine is a class of organic compounds characterized by the presence of both amine and ethylene groups. The simplest and most common ethyleneamine is ethylenediamine (EDA), which has the chemical formula C2H8N2. Other common ethyleneamines include diethylenetriamine (DETA), triethylenetetramine (TETA), and tetraethylenepentamine (TEPA), each with an increasing number of ethyleneamine units.

These compounds are produced industrially through the reaction of ethylenediamine with ethylene dichloride or by the reaction of ammonia with monoethanolamine. Ethyleneamines are typically colorless to yellowish liquids with an ammoniacal odor. They are soluble in water and polar organic solvents.

The primary applications of ethyleneamines stem from their reactive amine groups, which can participate in a variety of chemical reactions. They are widely used as curing agents for epoxy resins, forming strong and durable thermoset plastics. They also serve as intermediates in the synthesis of a broad range of chemicals, including chelating agents, polyamide resins, corrosion inhibitors, and surfactants. Their ability to complex metal ions makes them valuable in processes like petroleum refining and water treatment. Due to their basic nature, they are also used as emulsifiers and dispersants.