Cyclohexylamine is a highly versatile primary amine used primarily as a chemical intermediate and a corrosion inhibitor. Its ability to mix with water and most organic solvents makes it a valuable building block across multiple industries.
Chemical Intermediate and Synthesis
The largest use of cyclohexylamine is as a building block for synthesizing other chemicals. It serves as a precursor for several important commercial products:
Rubber Vulcanization Accelerators: It is a key raw material in producing accelerators like N-cyclohexyl-2-benzothiazole sulfonamide (CBS).
Artificial Sweeteners: It is used in the manufacture of cyclamates.
Pharmaceuticals and Agrochemicals: It is a versatile intermediate in the production of various drug actives, herbicides, and insecticides.
Other Syntheses: It is also used in producing dyestuffs, plasticizers, emulsifying agents, and gas absorbents.
Corrosion Inhibition and Water Treatment
Cyclohexylamine is widely used as a neutralizing amine and corrosion inhibitor in industrial water systems.
Boiler Water Treatment: It is specifically added to boiler feed water to neutralize dissolved carbon dioxide, thereby preventing the formation of carbonic acid that causes corrosion in metal pipes and equipment.
Other Industrial and Specialty Applications
Beyond its main functions, cyclohexylamine finds use in other niche areas:
Polymer Additives: It is used as a hardener, crosslinking agent, and catalyst in polymer systems like polyurethane and polyurea.
Solvent: It can act as a solvent in synthesizing specific materials, such as inorganic-organic hybrid semiconductors.
Key Safety and Handling Considerations
Cyclohexylamine is a hazardous chemical requiring careful handling. Key safety information includes:
Flammability: It is a flammable liquid with a flash point between 27-31 °C.
Toxicity and Irritation: It is corrosive and toxic, causing severe burns upon contact and is a potent eye, skin, and respiratory irritant.
Exposure Limits: The OSHA permissible exposure limit (PEL) and ACGIH threshold limit value (TLV) for an 8-hour time-weighted average (TWA) is 10 ppm.
Incompatibilities: It is a strong base that reacts violently with strong acids and oxidizers. It also attacks aluminum, copper, zinc, and their alloys.