Diallylamine appears as a unique chemical that holds a valuable place across several industries. Its formula, C6H11N, points to a compact structure with good reactivity, making it useful in a wide range of chemical processes. As an organic compound, it stands out by combining both amine and alkene functionalities in the same molecule, opening doors to multiple transformation options in industrial chemistry. The appearance of diallylamine usually varies from a colorless to a pale yellow liquid. Some notice a fishy odor, similar to other amines. Its physical state, although primarily liquid at room temperatures, can shift under certain conditions, but flakes, solids, powders, pearls, and crystals rarely occur naturally unless processed for specialist uses.
Diallylamine features two allyl groups attached to a single nitrogen atom. Its double bonds in the allyl chains contribute to its ability to undergo addition reactions and polymerization, playing a part in its reactivity profile. This chemistry makes diallylamine appealing for making polymers, resins, and performance materials. Its molecular weight comes out to 97.16 g/mol, and one molecule contains six carbon atoms, eleven hydrogens, and a nitrogen. With a density around 0.789 g/cm³ at 20°C, diallylamine sits lighter than water, which has affected its handling and storage in daily industrial practice.
This substance generally maintains its clear liquid state at room temperature, melting at about -80°C and boiling at 111°C under atmospheric pressure. It dissolves readily in water and many common organic solvents, making it flexible for industrial mixing or process needs. Its vapor pressure at 20°C sits close to 32 mmHg, which speaks to its volatility—people working with this material understand the importance of contained facilities and strong ventilation. Commercial supplies typically offer diallylamine in bulk liquid form, stored under nitrogen or argon, often supplied in steel drums or IBCs for easy transfer and security.
Trade in diallylamine relies on standard international coding for customs and safety tracing. The Harmonized System (HS) Code commonly applied is 2921.19, falling within the amines group. This code supports proper border handling and guides import-export requirements. Those bringing in raw materials know that compliance with documentation and standards can't be skipped. Besides customs, regional chemical safety bodies like REACH in Europe, TSCA in the United States, or K-REACH in Korea list specific regulations on volume, purity, and allowed concentrations, so companies must maintain careful oversight.
Safety stands front and center. Diallylamine is classed as hazardous—flammable, harmful if inhaled or swallowed, and irritating to skin and eyes. Operators wear gloves and goggles, and many sites require respiratory protection. Most plants utilize sealed systems, and workers rely on fume closets or outdoor set-ups for sampling. The vapor, catching a spark, can ignite easily. That's why, in my own experience handling amines, proper labeling, and strict access helps prevent mishaps. For storage, a cool, ventilated area far from strong oxidizers and acids remains essential. Spilled diallylamine moves quickly in water and soil, so spill protocols use absorbent materials and environmental containment. Waste routes channel all rinse water and residues to a chemical treatment facility. Local laws set firm thresholds on allowable emissions, and process changes include emission abatement steps, like activated carbon filters.
Production typically starts from allyl chloride and ammonia, utilizing efficient catalytic synthesis routes. The value chain runs from raw chemical feedstocks through intermediate compounds, reaching purified diallylamine. Many plants invest in quality control to guarantee purity, since downstream processes in water treatment, agrochemicals, and polymer additives all demand reliable input. Over the years, the global supply network has shifted, with major quantities now coming from suppliers in East Asia, the United States, and parts of Europe. In my experience, procurement teams always check batch analytics on acid value, water content, and presence of residual allyl compounds to judge suitability for high-value end products.
Long exposure brings concerns for people working near bulk diallylamine. Short-term inhalation irritates airways, causes cough, or discomfort, and liquid contact stings the skin. Some reports trace headaches or dizziness to fumes in unventilated rooms. In chemical synthesis lines, we set up emergency eyewash and showers. Training on safe transfer methods, rapid containment, and knowing local medical support speeds up case response. Medical surveillance happens regularly for anyone with consistent exposure. Personal habit, like avoiding eating or drinking in process areas, keeps accidental ingestion risk down. The drive to switch over to safer substitutes or automate transfer steps serves worker health, and sites using larger volumes explore methods for vapor scrubbing or closed-loop transfer.
The talk about sustainability grows each year. Diallylamine production and use creates footprints in terms of water, waste, and emissions. Producers in regions with tighter environmental rules invest in better capture and reuse of heating fluids, limit leaks, and sometimes recycle wash water after careful treatment. Downstream buyers, focused on printed circuit boards or water chemicals, ask for evidence of responsible sourcing and minimal discharge. Where possible, designers look for ways to shift reactions to lower-temperature processes or use less toxic catalysts.
Diallylamine, while potent as a raw material, demands solid respect—strict protocols, tested logistics, and routine worker training. The story of this chemical mirrors the larger push for safer handling, environmental concern, and the seamless flow of global trade. Knowing the properties, from density and boiling point to hazardous profile, shapes daily use in labs and plants. Its history, structure, and careful management shine a light on what real chemical stewardship means in the workplace.
