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Di-n-propylamine is a secondary aliphatic amine with the molecular formula C₆H₁₅N, consisting of two straight-chain n-propyl groups attached to a single nitrogen atom.
Because of its bifunctional nature, di-n-propylamine is a valuable intermediate in organic synthesis, serving as a precursor in the production of pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and specialty chemicals.
However, di-n-propylamine’s reactivity, volatility, and irritant nature require careful management under controlled conditions to ensure safe and effective use in industrial and laboratory settings.
CAS Number: 142-84-7
EC Number: 205-586-6
Molecular Formula: C6H15N
Molar Mass: 101.19 g/mol
Synonyms: N-propyl-1-propanamine, Di-normal-propylamine, Dipropylamine, N,N-dipropylamine, n-dipropylamine, DNPA, AURORA KA-7671, DI-N-PROPYLAMINE, DIPROPYLAMINE, DNPA, DPA, LABOTEST-BB LTBB000411, n,n-dipropylamine, N-Propyl-1-propanamine, N-PROPYL-PROPANAMINE, (n-C3H7)2NH, 1-propanamine,n-propyl, 1-propanamine,n-propyl-, ai3-24037, di(1-propyl)amine, Dipropanamine, N-Dipropylamine, n-propyl-1-propanamin, N-propyl-propylamine, Rcra waste number U110, rcrawastenumberu110 CAS NO:142-84-7
Di-n-propylamine is a secondary aliphatic amine with the molecular formula C₆H₁₅N, consisting of two straight-chain n-propyl groups attached to a single nitrogen atom.
Di-n-propylamine appears as a clear, colorless to pale yellow liquid with an ammonia- or amine-like odor and is moderately volatile.
With a boiling point of about 110–112 °C and a density near 0.72 g/cm³ at 20 °C, Di-n-propylamine is lighter than water and only partially miscible with it, though it mixes well with many organic solvents.
As a weak base and a nucleophile, di-n-propylamine readily forms salts with mineral acids and participates in condensation, alkylation, and acylation reactions.
Di-n-propylamine is used primarily as an intermediate in organic synthesis, including the manufacture of herbicides, pharmaceuticals, and rubber chemicals, and as a corrosion inhibitor in industrial applications.
Due to its volatility and potential to cause irritation of the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract, Di-n-propylamine requires careful handling in well-ventilated environments with proper protective equipment.
Di-n-propylamine is a secondary aliphatic amine with the chemical formula C₆H₁₅N, composed of two linear n-propyl groups bonded to a central nitrogen atom.
This molecular structure gives Di-n-propylamine a branched hydrophobic character balanced by a basic amine functionality.
In its pure form, di-n-propylamine appears as a clear, colorless to pale yellow liquid that emits a strong, characteristic amine-like odor.
Di-n-propylamine is moderately volatile, with a boiling point of approximately 110–112 °C, a melting point near −60 °C, and a density of about 0.72 g/cm³ at 20 °C, making it lighter than water.
Di-n-propylamine is only partially miscible with water but readily dissolves in organic solvents such as alcohols, ethers, and hydrocarbons.
Chemically, di-n-propylamine acts as a weak base and nucleophile, enabling it to form salts with mineral acids and to participate in a variety of reactions including condensation, acylation, and alkylation.
Because of its bifunctional nature, di-n-propylamine is a valuable intermediate in organic synthesis, serving as a precursor in the production of pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and specialty chemicals.
Di-n-propylamine is used in the synthesis of herbicides, insecticides, and fungicides, where its alkylated amine group improves bioactivity and solubility.
In the pharmaceutical sector, Di-n-propylamine is incorporated into the development of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and drug intermediates, particularly those requiring secondary amine building blocks.
In industrial chemistry, di-n-propylamine finds application as a corrosion inhibitor in lubricants and metalworking fluids, as well as a stabilizer in polymer and rubber processing.
Despite its usefulness, di-n-propylamine poses certain health and safety risks.
Di-n-propylamine can irritate the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract, and its vapors may cause coughing, dizziness, or discomfort upon inhalation.
Prolonged or repeated exposure may result in sensitization or dermatitis in susceptible individuals.
As a flammable liquid, Di-n-propylamine also forms explosive mixtures with air under certain conditions, necessitating strict precautions during storage and handling.
Containers must be tightly sealed and kept in cool, well-ventilated areas, away from heat, sparks, open flames, and strong oxidizing agents.
In summary, di-n-propylamine is a versatile chemical intermediate with wide-ranging industrial significance.
Di-n-propylamine's physical and chemical properties make it an important building block in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and rubber additives, while its role as a corrosion inhibitor extends its utility to lubrication and metal protection systems.
However, Di-n-propylamine's reactivity, volatility, and irritant nature require careful management under controlled conditions to ensure safe and effective use in industrial and laboratory settings.
Market Overview of Di-n-propylamine:
The global Di-n-Propylamine market is valued at around USD 200–240 million in 2023–2024 and is projected to grow at a steady CAGR of 4–5%, reaching more than USD 330 million by 2033.
Growth is primarily driven by Di-n-propylamine's use as an intermediate in agrochemicals, especially pesticides and herbicides, which account for nearly half of total demand.
Di-n-propylamine also finds important applications in pharmaceutical synthesis, corrosion inhibitors, solvents, and specialty chemicals, with rising demand for high-purity grades (98–99%+) in sensitive sectors.
Regionally, North America currently dominates the market due to Di-n-propylamine's advanced chemical industry, while Europe holds a significant share in specialty applications.
However, the Asia-Pacific region is the fastest-growing market, supported by expanding agricultural and manufacturing activity in China and India.
Key players such as Alkyl Amines Chemicals, Eastman, and Zhejiang Jianye Chemical are investing in capacity expansion and purity improvements.
Despite this positive outlook, the market faces challenges from raw material price volatility, strict environmental regulations, and growing competition from alternative amines and bio-based substitutes.
Uses of Di-n-propylamine:
Di-n-Propylamine is widely used as an intermediate in the production of agrochemicals, where it plays a key role in the synthesis of herbicides, pesticides, and fungicides that help improve crop protection and agricultural productivity.
In the pharmaceutical industry, manufacturers employ Di-n-propylamine as a building block in the preparation of active pharmaceutical ingredients and other drug intermediates that require secondary amine structures.
Beyond these areas, the chemical industry utilizes di-n-propylamine as a corrosion inhibitor in lubricants, metalworking fluids, and cutting oils, as well as a stabilizer in rubber and polymer production.
Di-n-propylamine also serves in the development of specialty chemicals, including catalysts, zeolites, coatings, and solvents, where its reactivity enhances formulation performance.
Additionally, Di-n-propylamine derivatives appear in detergents, cleaning products, textiles, and leather treatments, highlighting its versatility across multiple industrial and consumer applications.
Di-n-Propylamine is a versatile secondary aliphatic amine with broad industrial importance, serving as a key intermediate across several major sectors.
Di-n-propylamine's largest application lies in the agrochemical industry, where it is widely used to manufacture herbicides, pesticides, and fungicides that protect crops from weeds, pests, and fungal diseases.
By enabling the synthesis of highly effective crop protection products, Di-n-propylamine contributes directly to improving agricultural efficiency and food security on a global scale.
In the pharmaceutical field, di-n-propylamine functions as a building block for active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and other drug intermediates, particularly in compounds that require secondary amine structures.
Researchers and manufacturers use Di-n-propylamine in synthetic routes for antihypertensives, antimalarials, and other specialized medicines, where its reactivity and structural simplicity allow for easy chemical modifications.
Beyond these essential uses, the industrial sector relies on di-n-propylamine as a corrosion inhibitor in lubricants, cutting fluids, and metalworking operations, where it helps extend equipment life and improve process reliability.
The rubber and polymer industries employ Di-n-propylamine as a stabilizer and modifier during processing, enhancing material durability and performance.
In specialty chemical production, Di-n-propylamine finds application in the synthesis of catalysts, zeolites, coatings, solvents, and adhesives, where its amine functionality promotes crosslinking and binding.
Di-n-propylamine's derivatives are also used in detergents, cleaning products, and textile finishing agents, where they improve solubility, stability, and cleaning efficiency.
The leather and textile industries further benefit from di-n-propylamine-based intermediates, which provide improved finishes, surface treatments, and protective coatings.
In consumer product formulations, Di-n-propylamine derivatives enhance the performance of cleaning agents and personal care products by acting as solubilizers and stabilizers.
Overall, di-n-propylamine is not only a vital intermediate for agrochemicals and pharmaceuticals, but also a critical additive in industrial, specialty, and consumer applications, underscoring its wide-ranging utility in modern chemical manufacturing.
Agrochemicals:
Agrochemical companies use di-n-propylamine as an intermediate in the synthesis of herbicides, pesticides, and fungicides.
Farmers benefit from crop protection products derived from di-n-propylamine that increase yield and reduce losses.
Pharmaceuticals:
Pharmaceutical manufacturers use di-n-propylamine as a building block in the production of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs).
Researchers use Di-n-propylamine in drug synthesis where secondary amine structures are required.
Industrial Applications:
Chemical industries use di-n-propylamine as a corrosion inhibitor in lubricants, cutting fluids, and metalworking processes.
Manufacturers use Di-n-propylamine as a stabilizer and processing aid in rubber and polymer production.
Specialty Chemicals:
Producers use di-n-propylamine in the preparation of zeolites and catalysts, which support chemical transformations.
Formulators use Di-n-propylamine in coatings, solvents, and surface treatment products.
Consumer and Other Applications:
Detergent and cleaning product companies use derivatives of di-n-propylamine in formulations to enhance performance.
Textile and leather industries use Di-n-propylamine as a processing aid and intermediate for specialty finishes.
Benefits of Di-n-propylamine:
Di-n-Propylamine offers significant benefits across industrial, agricultural, pharmaceutical, and consumer sectors due to its versatility and reactivity.
Chemical industries benefit from its role as both a building block and an additive, making it valuable in agrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, polymers, and specialty chemicals.
Farmers and agrochemical companies benefit from Di-n-propylamine-derived herbicides, pesticides, and fungicides that improve crop protection and boost yields.
Pharmaceutical manufacturers benefit from its use as an intermediate in active pharmaceutical ingredients, while researchers benefit from its secondary amine structure, which allows easy integration into complex molecules.
Engineers benefit from its function as a corrosion inhibitor in lubricants and metalworking fluids, and polymer producers benefit from its stabilizing properties that enhance the durability of rubber and plastics.
Beyond these areas, producers benefit from its application in catalysts, coatings, and solvents, while consumers benefit indirectly through better detergents, cleaning products, and textile treatments made with Di-n-propylamine derivatives.
Together, these advantages highlight Di-n-propylamine’s importance as a cost-effective, multifunctional, and widely applicable chemical in modern industry.
Versatility:
Chemical industries benefit from di-n-propylamine because Di-n-propylamine can be used in multiple sectors including agrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, and specialty chemicals.
Manufacturers benefit from Di-n-propylamine's ability to act as both a building block and an additive in diverse applications.
Agrochemical Efficiency:
Farmers benefit from di-n-propylamine because it enables the production of effective herbicides, pesticides, and fungicides.
Agrochemical companies benefit from higher yields and improved crop protection products derived from Di-n-propylamine.
Pharmaceutical Applications:
Pharmaceutical companies benefit from di-n-propylamine as a reliable intermediate for active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs).
Researchers benefit from Di-n-propylamine's secondary amine structure, which allows easy incorporation into complex molecules.
Industrial Performance:
Engineers benefit from di-n-propylamine because it functions as a corrosion inhibitor in lubricants and metalworking fluids.
Polymer manufacturers benefit from Di-n-propylamine's stabilizing effect, which improves durability and processing of rubber and plastics.
Specialty and Consumer Products:
Producers benefit from di-n-propylamine by using it in catalysts, coatings, and solvents that enhance product performance.
Consumers benefit indirectly from improved detergents, cleaning agents, and textile treatments made with Di-n-propylamine derivatives.
Production of Di-n-propylamine:
Di-n-Propylamine is produced industrially using several synthetic approaches, the most common of which involve alkylation and reductive amination.
Chemical companies typically synthesize Di-n-propylamine by alkylating n-propylamine with n-propyl halides in the presence of a base, a process that requires careful control of temperature, pressure, and reaction conditions to favor the formation of the secondary amine over higher alkylated byproducts.
Another widely used method is catalytic reductive amination, where propanal is reacted with ammonia or primary propylamines in the presence of hydrogen and a transition metal catalyst such as nickel, cobalt, or copper.
This route is attractive because Di-n-propylamine allows higher selectivity and fewer unwanted side products compared to conventional alkylation.
Researchers and process engineers continue to refine these methods, exploring zeolite-based and heterogeneous catalytic systems to improve efficiency, yield, and environmental sustainability.
After synthesis, the crude reaction mixture is typically purified by fractional distillation, ensuring that di-n-propylamine meets the purity requirements for Di-n-propylamine's various end uses in agrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, corrosion inhibitors, and specialty chemicals.
On an industrial scale, production plants in Asia, North America, and Europe operate continuously to supply global demand, with Asia-Pacific increasingly dominating capacity expansion due to strong growth in agricultural and chemical manufacturing.
Synthesis of Di-n-propylamine:
Di-n-Propylamine can be synthesized by several established methods, with the most common approaches being alkylation of n-propylamine and reductive amination of propanal.
In the alkylation route, chemists react n-propylamine with n-propyl halides such as n-propyl chloride or bromide in the presence of a base, carefully controlling the conditions to favor the formation of the secondary amine over tertiary byproducts.
A more efficient and selective industrial method is reductive amination, where propanal is combined with ammonia or n-propylamine and then hydrogenated in the presence of metal catalysts such as nickel, cobalt, or copper.
This catalytic process proceeds through an imine intermediate and allows for higher yields and fewer side reactions compared to direct alkylation.
In modern practice, industries often use heterogeneous catalysts, including zeolites and supported metal systems, to further improve selectivity and sustainability.
Once synthesized, crude di-n-propylamine is purified by fractional distillation to separate it from unreacted feedstocks and higher alkylamines, ensuring the product meets the high-purity standards required for use in agrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, corrosion inhibitors, and specialty chemicals.
History of Di-n-propylamine:
The history of Di-n-Propylamine is closely tied to the broader development of aliphatic amines in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when chemists began systematically studying amine structures, reactivity, and applications.
Early laboratory syntheses involved the alkylation of primary amines with alkyl halides, a method that provided small-scale access to secondary and tertiary amines, including di-n-propylamine.
As the chemical industry expanded in the early 20th century, researchers recognized the value of secondary amines as intermediates in pharmaceuticals, rubber chemicals, and agricultural formulations, prompting industrial interest in Di-n-propylamine.
By the mid-20th century, large-scale production techniques were established, particularly catalytic reductive amination processes, which improved yields and reduced byproducts compared to simple alkylation methods.
During the agricultural boom of the 1950s and 1960s, demand for herbicides, pesticides, and fungicides spurred greater production of Di-n-propylamine, solidifying its role as a key agrochemical intermediate.
Over time, its applications expanded into corrosion inhibitors, rubber stabilizers, solvents, and pharmaceuticals, reflecting Di-n-propylamine’s versatility and chemical reactivity.
Today, di-n-propylamine remains an important specialty chemical with a history that reflects the evolution of industrial organic synthesis—from early bench-scale alkylation experiments to modern catalytic processes supplying global markets.
Handling and Storage of Di-n-propylamine:
Handling:
Handle di-n-propylamine only in well-ventilated areas or under a fume hood.
Avoid inhalation of vapors and prevent contact with skin and eyes.
Do not eat, drink, or smoke while handling.
Use closed systems or local exhaust ventilation to minimize exposure.
Ground and bond containers during transfer to prevent static discharge, as vapors can form flammable mixtures with air.
Always wear appropriate PPE (gloves, goggles, protective clothing).
Storage:
Store in tightly sealed containers made of compatible materials (stainless steel, lined steel, HDPE).
Keep in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area, away from heat, sparks, open flames, oxidizers, acids, and halogenated compounds.
Protect from direct sunlight and moisture.
Recommended storage temperature: ambient to ≤25 °C.
Stability and Reactivity of Di-n-propylamine:
Stability:
Stable under normal conditions of use and storage.
Reactivity:
Reacts strongly with oxidizing agents (e.g., peroxides, nitric acid) and acids, releasing heat and hazardous vapors.
May attack copper and Di-n-propylamine's alloys.
Decomposition Products:
Burning or thermal decomposition may produce nitrogen oxides (NOₓ), carbon monoxide, and carbon dioxide.
Incompatibilities:
Strong oxidizers, strong acids, acid chlorides, halogens, and acid anhydrides.
First Aid Measures of Di-n-propylamine:
Inhalation:
Move person to fresh air.
Keep at rest in a comfortable position.
If breathing is difficult, administer oxygen.
Seek medical attention if symptoms persist.
Skin Contact:
Immediately remove contaminated clothing.
Wash skin thoroughly with soap and water for at least 15 minutes.
Seek medical advice if irritation develops.
Eye Contact:
Rinse cautiously with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes, lifting eyelids occasionally.
Remove contact lenses if present and easy to do.
Obtain immediate medical attention.
Ingestion:
Rinse mouth with water.
Do not induce vomiting.
Seek immediate medical care.
Firefighting Measures of Di-n-propylamine:
Suitable Extinguishing Media:
Alcohol-resistant foam, dry chemical powder, or carbon dioxide (CO₂).
Water spray can be used for cooling containers but may not extinguish the fire.
Specific Hazards:
Vapors are flammable and may form explosive mixtures with air.
Thermal decomposition may release toxic fumes (NOₓ, CO, CO₂).
Protective Equipment:
Firefighters should wear self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) and full protective gear.
Apply water spray to cool unopened containers.
Accidental Release Measures of Di-n-propylamine:
Personal Precautions:
Evacuate unnecessary personnel.
Ensure adequate ventilation.
Remove all ignition sources.
Wear appropriate PPE including gloves, goggles, and respiratory protection.
Containment:
Stop leak if safe to do so.
Prevent entry into drains, sewers, or confined areas.
Cleanup Methods:
Absorb spills with inert material (sand, vermiculite, earth) and collect in suitable containers for disposal.
Wash contaminated surfaces with soap and water.
Dispose of waste according to local regulations.
Exposure Controls / Personal Protection of Di-n-propylamine:
Engineering Controls:
Use local exhaust ventilation or chemical fume hoods to maintain airborne concentrations below recommended limits.
Emergency eyewash stations and showers should be available.
Occupational Exposure Limits:
No specific OSHA PEL established for di-n-propylamine; follow general amine guidelines (TWA ~5 ppm where applicable).
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
Respiratory Protection:
Use NIOSH-approved organic vapor respirators if ventilation is inadequate.
For high concentrations, use supplied-air or SCBA.
Eye Protection:
Chemical safety goggles or face shield.
Skin Protection:
Nitrile, neoprene, or butyl rubber gloves; protective clothing such as aprons, coveralls, and boots.
General Hygiene:
Wash hands and face after handling.
Remove contaminated clothing and wash before reuse.
Do not carry contaminated clothing home.
Identifiers of Di-n-propylamine:
Substance Name: Di-n-Propylamine
IUPAC Name: N-propylpropan-1-amine
Common Abbreviation: DPA
Chemical Family: Secondary aliphatic amine
CAS Number: 142-84-7
EC Number (EINECS): 205-586-6
UN Number (Transport): UN 2383 (Flammable, corrosive liquid)
RTECS Number: UB8050000
PubChem CID: 8103
ChemSpider ID: 7804
Beilstein Registry Number: 1730734
Molecular Formula: C₆H₁₅N
Molar Mass: 101.19 g/mol
Structure: CH₃–CH₂–CH₂–NH–CH₂–CH₂–CH₃
InChI: InChI=1S/C6H15N/c1-3-5-7-6-4-2/h7H,3-6H2,1-2H3
InChI Key: PGQNYQHZUKOJBX-UHFFFAOYSA-N
SMILES: CCCNCCC
Preferred IUPAC Name: N-propylpropan-1-amine
Common Name: Di-n-propylamine
Abbreviation: DPA
Chemical Class: Secondary aliphatic amine
Appearance: Clear, colorless to pale yellow liquid with strong amine odor
CAS Number: 142-84-7
EC Number (EINECS): 205-586-6
UN Number (Transport): UN 2383 (Flammable, corrosive liquid)
RTECS Number: UB8050000
PubChem CID: 8103
ChemSpider ID: 7804
Beilstein Registry Number: 1730734
KEGG Compound ID: C19477
ChEBI ID: CHEBI:82606
HS Code (Customs): 29211990 (Acyclic secondary amines)
Molecular Formula: C₆H₁₅N
Molar Mass: 101.19 g/mol
Structural Formula: CH₃–CH₂–CH₂–NH–CH₂–CH₂–CH₃
InChI: InChI=1S/C6H15N/c1-3-5-7-6-4-2/h7H,3-6H2,1-2H3
InChI Key: PGQNYQHZUKOJBX-UHFFFAOYSA-N
SMILES: CCCNCCC
TSCA Inventory (US): Listed
REACH Registration (EU): Pre-registered
Properties of Di-n-propylamine:
Chemical Formula: C₆H₁₅N
Molar Mass: 101.19 g/mol
Appearance: Clear, colorless to pale yellow liquid
Odor: Strong, ammonia-like / amine odor
State: Liquid at room temperature
Density: ~0.72 g/cm³ at 20 °C (lighter than water)
Melting Point: −63 °C
Boiling Point: 110–112 °C at 1 atm
Refractive Index (n²⁰ᴰ): ~1.40
Vapor Pressure: ~30–32 mmHg at 25 °C
Vapor Density: ~3.5 (air = 1)
Viscosity: ~0.5 mPa·s at 25 °C
Flash Point: ~21 °C (closed cup) → highly flammable
Autoignition Temperature: ~312 °C
Explosive Limits (in air): 1.8–10.2 % (v/v)
Chemical Name: Di-n-Propylamine
Formula: C₆H₁₅N
Molar Mass: 101.19 g/mol
Chemical Class: Secondary aliphatic amine
Physical State: Liquid at room temperature
Appearance: Clear, colorless to pale yellow
Odor: Strong, pungent, ammonia-like amine odor
Density: 0.716–0.724 g/cm³ at 20 °C
Melting Point: −63 °C
Boiling Point: 110–112 °C at 1 atm
Refractive Index (n²⁰ᴰ): 1.401–1.405
Vapor Pressure: 30–32 mmHg at 25 °C
Vapor Density (air = 1): ~3.5
Viscosity: ~0.5 mPa·s at 25 °C
Surface Tension: ~24 mN/m at 20 °C
Heat Capacity (Cp): ~2.15 J/g·K
Enthalpy of Vaporization: ~37–40 kJ/mol
Flash Point: 21 °C (closed cup) → highly flammable
Autoignition Temperature: 312 °C
Explosion Limits in Air: 1.8–10.2 % (v/v)
NFPA 704 Ratings: Health 2, Flammability 3, Reactivity 0
Basicity (pKa of conjugate acid): ~10.5
LogP (octanol/water): ~1.5 → moderately lipophilic
Solubility in Water: Slight (~10–20 g/L at 20 °C)
Solubility in Organic Solvents: Miscible with alcohols, ethers, hydrocarbons, esters, and ketones
Stability: Hygroscopic, volatile, reacts with oxidizers and acids
Reactivity: Forms salts with acids; reacts exothermically with acid chlorides, anhydrides, and halogens
