Introduction to Tetramethylethylenediamine (TMEDA)

English Name: N,N,N′,N′-Tetramethylethylenediamine (TMEDA)

CAS No.: 110-18-9

Chromatographic Purity: ≥99.0%

Molecular Weight: 116.2

Flash Point: 50 °F

Physical Form: Liquid

Refractive Index: n20/D 1.4179 (lit.)

Density: 0.775 g/mL at 20 °C (lit.)

Applications: Pharmaceutical intermediate

N,N,N′,N′-Tetramethylethylenediamine, also known as TMEDA, is a structurally symmetric diamine compound widely used in organic synthesis, pharmaceutical chemistry, and advanced materials. With CAS No. 110-18-9, TMEDA appears as a colorless transparent liquid with a slight ammonia-like odor. It is miscible with water, ethanol, and most organic solvents, making it a valuable intermediate and catalytic additive in various industrial processes.

Key Applications

1. Pharmaceutical Intermediate

TMEDA is extensively used in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals as an organic base or structural building block to regulate reaction environments. It plays an important role in the production of APIs (Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients) and key intermediates.

2. Organometallic Catalyst Ligand

Due to its excellent chelating ability, TMEDA forms stable complexes with organolithium and Grignard reagents, helping control reaction rates and improve yields and selectivity. It is an indispensable co-catalyst in many organometallic reaction systems.

3. Epoxy Resin Curing Agent

TMEDA acts as a room-temperature curing accelerator for epoxy resins. It is widely used in adhesives, composite materials, and electronic potting compounds, enhancing curing efficiency and durability.

4. Intermediate for Quaternary Ammonium Salts

TMEDA is used in the synthesis of quaternary ammonium cationic surfactants, antimicrobial agents, and polymer modifiers. These applications are common in the daily chemical and environmental materials industries.

5. Biochemical Reagent

Thanks to its stable structure and moderate alkalinity, TMEDA is also used as a biochemical buffer or pH adjuster in reaction systems, playing an important role in laboratory research.

Safety and Handling

TMEDA is volatile and irritating; it should be handled in a sealed, well-ventilated area with appropriate protective gloves and goggles. Store away from light, heat, and moisture, and keep away from ignition sources and strong oxidizers. Transport should comply with general chemical handling regulations.

Market Outlook

• With the continuous development of the chemical, pharmaceutical, and advanced materials industries, the application of TMEDA is expanding into high value-added sectors. Its market demand shows a steady growth trend, with specific prospects in the following areas:

• Organometallic Catalysis: As a high-quality ligand, TMEDA is essential for reactions involving lithium reagents and Grignard reagents. The development of new catalytic systems and drug synthesis processes further drives demand, especially for directional and selective reactions.

• Fine & Electronic Chemicals: TMEDA’s stable structure and flexible performance have opened up new applications in high-end coatings, electrolytes, and electronic cleaning materials.

• Pharmaceutical R&D: TMEDA is increasingly important for reaction control and activity enhancement in API synthesis, especially for high-value active pharmaceutical ingredients.

• New Materials Additives: TMEDA is widely used to improve performance and processing efficiency in epoxy resins, composites, and coatings. Its role in eco-friendly, low-VOC coating systems holds great potential.

• Green Processes and Custom Synthesis: TMEDA is compatible with various green chemistry routes, including flow and microreactor technologies, making it highly suitable for smart manufacturing and sustainable processes in fine chemicals.

With its stable properties and versatile applications, N,N,N′,N′-Tetramethylethylenediamine has broad development prospects across organic synthesis, material chemistry, and pharmaceutical production. As the demand for high value-added chemicals grows, its market value will continue to rise, making it an important organic intermediate worth investing in and developing further.