Propyleneimine Explained

Propyleneimine (or propylene imine) is the organic compound with the formula CH₃CH(NH)CH₂. It is a secondary amine and the smallest chiral aziridine (ring containing C₂N). It is a flammable colorless liquid. Its derivatives, copolymers and oligomers, are of commercial interest.

Uses

This chemical is used in the paper, textile, rubber and pharmaceutical industries. Propyleneimine is also used in making paint.

The top global producers of this specialty chemical include DuPont, Mitsubishi Chemical Holdings Corporation, Sigma-Aldrich, Dixie Chemical Company, J and K Scientific, Apollo Scientific, Mitsui Chemicals.^[1]

The compound is also of interest for the synthesis of dendrimers, a process that exploits the tendency of aziridines to undergo ring-opening reactions.^{[2] [3]}

Health Effects

NIOSH considers propyleneimine a potential occupational carcinogen.

According to a report prepared for the United Church of Christ, propyleneimine emissions from the Dixie Chemical Company facility in Bayport, Pasadena, Texas, are one of the top ten toxicity-weighted air pollutions in the United States.^[4]

Notes and References

1. Web site: Global QYResearch . Propyleneimine Market Analysis, Size, Share, Trends, Growth and Forecasts Report 2019-2026 . MarketWatch, Inc. . 14 March 2020.
2. Dendrimers: Relationship between structure and biocompatibility in vitro, and preliminary studies on the biodistribution of 125I-labeled polyamidoamine dendrimers in vivo. Malik, N. . Wiwattanapatapee, R. . Klopsch, R. . Lorenz, K. . Frey, H. . Weener, J. W. . Meijer, E. W. . Paulus, W. . Duncan, R. . Journal of Controlled Release. 2000. 65. 1–2. 133–148. 10.1016/S0168-3659(99)00246-1. 10699277.
3. http://actrav.itcilo.org/actrav-english/telearn/osh/ic/75558.htm Propyleneimine International Chemical Safety Card
4. Web site: Breath to the People: Sacred Air and Toxic Pollution . United Church of Christ . 14 March 2020 . 12, 21.