M-Toluidine is a chemical compound that is commonly used in the production of dyes and pigments. It also serves as a precursor in the synthesis of various pharmaceuticals and agricultural chemicals. Despite its industrial applications, m-Toluidine is not directly relevant to everyday life for most individuals. Its significance lies more in its contributions to the manufacturing and production sectors.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
m-Toluidine, also known as 3-methylaniline, is a chemical compound widely used in various commercial and industrial applications. One primary use of m-Toluidine is as a precursor in the production of dyes, particularly azo dyes, which are commonly used in the textile industry for coloring fabrics.
m-Toluidine is also utilized in the manufacturing of certain pharmaceuticals and pesticides. As a building block for organic synthesis, it plays a crucial role in the creation of various chemical compounds that have applications in the agricultural sector for crop protection and enhancement.
In the realm of drug and medication applications, m-Toluidine is not commonly employed due to its potential health hazards and toxicity. However, there have been limited studies exploring its use in the development of certain medications, particularly in the field of organic chemistry where its unique chemical properties may be harnessed for specific therapeutic purposes.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
m-Toluidine is a colorless to pale yellow liquid with a distinct aromatic odor. It is commonly used in the production of dyes, pharmaceuticals, and pesticides.
The molar mass of m-Toluidine is 107.16 g/mol, and its density is approximately 0.986 g/cm³. Compared to common food items, m-Toluidine has a higher molar mass and density, making it more dense and heavy in comparison.
m-Toluidine has a melting point of -15°C and a boiling point of 198°C. These values are significantly higher than those of common food items, indicating that m-Toluidine has a higher melting and boiling point.
m-Toluidine is slightly soluble in water and has a low viscosity. Compared to common food items, m-Toluidine has lower solubility in water and a lower viscosity, making it less likely to dissolve or flow easily in aqueous solutions.
🏭 Production & Procurement
m-Toluidine is primarily produced through a process called nitration followed by reduction. In this method, toluene is nitrated using a mixture of nitric and sulfuric acid to form m-nitrotoluene which is then reduced with hydrogen gas to yield m-toluidine.
m-Toluidine can be procured from chemical manufacturers who specialize in the production of aromatic amines. The compound is typically available in liquid form and is often transported in drums or containers to ensure safe handling and delivery.
Alternatively, m-Toluidine can also be obtained through chemical suppliers or distributors who carry a range of industrial chemicals. Customers can place orders for specific quantities of m-Toluidine which can be shipped via appropriate transportation methods such as truck or rail depending on the volume and distance of the delivery.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for m-TOLUIDINE include its classification as a toxic substance that can cause irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory system upon exposure. It is also flammable and poses a risk of explosion if heated or mixed with oxidizing agents. Proper handling, storage, and personal protective equipment, such as gloves and goggles, are essential when working with m-TOLUIDINE to minimize the risk of harm to individuals and the environment.
Hazard statements for m-TOLUIDINE include its classification as harmful if swallowed, inhaled, or comes into contact with skin, as it can cause severe irritation or burns. It is also labeled as a flammable liquid and vapors that may ignite from heat, sparks, or flames. Additionally, m-TOLUIDINE is considered harmful to aquatic life with long-lasting effects, highlighting the importance of proper disposal and prevention of environmental contamination.
Precautionary statements for m-TOLUIDINE recommend avoiding breathing in vapors, mist, or gas, and wearing protective gloves and clothing to prevent skin contact. It is advised to use in a well-ventilated area and keep away from heat, sparks, open flames, and other sources of ignition. In case of exposure, immediate medical attention is necessary, and contaminated clothing should be removed and washed before reuse to prevent further contact with m-TOLUIDINE.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
One potential research direction for m-toluidine is its role in industrial processes, particularly in the production of dyes, pharmaceuticals, and agricultural chemicals. Studies could focus on optimizing the synthesis of m-toluidine and its derivatives to improve efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
Another area of interest could be the environmental impact of m-toluidine and its potential toxicity to humans and ecosystems. Research could investigate the degradation pathways of m-toluidine in the environment and assess its long-term effects on biodiversity and human health.
Furthermore, there is a growing interest in the potential use of m-toluidine in organic electronics, such as organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) and organic photovoltaic cells. Future research could explore the electronic properties of m-toluidine-based materials and their potential applications in next-generation technology.
🧪 Related Compounds
One similar compound to m-TOLUIDINE based upon molecular structure is o-TOLUIDINE. This compound has a methyl group located on the ortho position of the aniline ring. The close structural resemblance between m-TOLUIDINE and o-TOLUIDINE allows for similar chemical reactions and properties.
Another compound akin to m-TOLUIDINE is p-TOLUIDINE. In this compound, the methyl group is situated on the para position of the aniline ring. Despite the difference in position of the substituent, p-TOLUIDINE exhibits comparable reactivity and characteristics to m-TOLUIDINE due to the shared aromatic nature of their molecular structures.
Additionally, N,N-DIMETHYL-p-TOLUIDINE is a compound that bears resemblance to m-TOLUIDINE. In this compound, two methyl groups are present at the para position of the aniline ring. N,N-DIMETHYL-p-TOLUIDINE shares similarities in reactivity and chemical properties with m-TOLUIDINE, making it a related compound worth noting in the field of organic chemistry.