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2-Ethoxyaniline, also known as o-ethoxyaniline, stands as an organic chemical compound that draws attention for its role in chemical synthesis and specialty manufacturing. Its molecular formula is C8H11NO, consisting of a benzene ring bonded to an amino group at the 2-position and an ethoxy side chain. In everyday terms, this translates to a structure where the ethoxy group links directly next to the amine function. By understanding its physical and chemical framework, industries have managed to use it as an important intermediate, especially where modifications to aromatic rings are necessary. It carries a CAS number of 94-71-3 and belongs to the Harmonized System Code (HS Code) 2921.42, making it traceable during cross-border trade of aromatic amines.
2-Ethoxyaniline typically appears as a colorless to pale yellow or amber liquid or as pale crystalline flakes, depending on temperature and storage conditions. At room temperature, many encounter it as a mobile liquid, but with cooling, it can solidify and even crystallize, forming small flakes or powdery crystals. The density sits around 1.04 g/cm³, a straightforward metric for anyone measuring or handling the material. Boiling occurs around 224°C, and an awareness of this property is essential for anyone distilling or purifying the compound. The molecular weight comes in at 137.18 g/mol, which aids chemists in batch calculations and stoichiometric conversions. It dissolves in organic solvents like ethanol, ether, and chloroform, making it suitable for multi-step syntheses. The odor can be faintly amine-like—a signal of its origin in the aromatic amine chemical family.
Producers offer 2-ethoxyaniline in a range of forms tailored for practical convenience, including liquid, solid flakes, crystalline powder, and sometimes small pearls for specialized dosing equipment. These different forms serve various industries, from laboratory research to industrial production, and the choice comes down to downstream processing needs. Liquid supplies fit automated dosing setups in large-scale chemical plants, while crystalline or powdery solids lend themselves to high-precision applications where weighing and minimal waste take priority. Material volume is commonly measured in liters for liquids or kilograms for solids, facilitating shipping, storage, and usage tracking.
Looking at the structure of 2-ethoxyaniline, the presence of both an amino group and an ethoxy substituent on the benzene ring creates a molecule with interesting reactivity. In my own experience working with aromatic amines, the neighboring —OCH2CH3 group can tweak how the amino function participates in synthesis, sometimes steering reactions toward unexpected directions. This makes 2-ethoxyaniline valuable as a raw material in dyes, pharmaceuticals, and beyond. Its molecular makeup means it can act as a nucleophile or undergo substitution reactions, fitting neatly into workflows where tailored aromatic compounds are in demand.
Manufacturers commonly guarantee a purity level above 98%, with professional suppliers providing consistent batches free of colored impurities and moisture. Density measurements (1.04 g/cm³ for the liquid) become important for safe handling and precise formulation. The melting point falls near 22°C to 25°C, so temperature in shipping or storage can mean the difference between a liquid or solid state. Specifications often spell out heavy metal content, amine content, and clarity, as these factors influence how well the product performs in downstream chemical reactions.
2-Ethoxyaniline takes on a role as a raw material in chemical manufacturing, especially in the production of dyes, pigments, and specialty polymers. Factories making azo dyes often start with substituted anilines, and the presence of the ethoxy group pushes synthesis in unique directions—producing deeper colors or influencing how pigments bind to fibers. In the pharmaceutical sector, this aromatic amine sometimes becomes part of more intricate molecules, acting as both a building block and a functional group influencer. Its reactivity profile and molecular structure mean a wide range of industries rely on it for the next generation of materials and molecules. My own time in lab development taught me that subtle differences in starting amines can lead to major changes in product stability or colorfastness, and 2-ethoxyaniline is a good example of such a material.
Having worked in chemical safety, the hazards attached to 2-ethoxyaniline call for respect. Classified as harmful, this compound can cause skin, eye, and respiratory irritation. Inhalation or skin contact with the liquid, solid, or even solution form may lead to symptoms typical of aromatic amine exposure: headaches, dizziness, or more severe health impacts with repeated contact. The substance isn't flammable at room temperature, but heating to high temperatures can release toxic fumes, including nitrogen oxides. Spills and improper disposal pose risks to both human health and the environment. Safe handling relies on established protocols: gloves, goggles, lab coats, and good ventilation. Any accidental exposure has to be treated fast with water and, if needed, medical attention.
For anyone storing or moving 2-ethoxyaniline, chemical safety matters. Secure containers with proper labels should sit in cool, dry, and well-ventilated areas away from oxidizing agents or strong acids. Training on safe transfer and spill response is important for staff, whether working with liquid, flake, powder, or pearls. During disposal, leftover or unused material gets categorized as hazardous chemical waste, needing professional incineration or controlled destruction—not standard municipal waste routes. From personal protective equipment to regular safety drills, prevention reduces both workplace injury and environmental harm. Modern facilities invest in spill containment, air monitoring, and worker training to keep risks to a minimum.
2-Ethoxyaniline’s empirical formula (C8H11NO) and structural formula provide a clear picture for chemists planning synthetic routes or characterizations. Its density of 1.04 g/cm³ for the liquid and melting point between 22–25°C end up being essential for labs that track state changes during storage or use. Chemists and warehouse handlers alike benefit from this data, supporting decisions made around bulk storage, transportation, and formula calculations. Information on vapor pressure, refractive index, and flash point further support those running risk assessments or developing new methods that incorporate this raw material.
Across the specialty chemicals sector, 2-ethoxyaniline functions as both a core and a specialty ingredient—visible in everything from dye labs to pharma plants. Through careful purification and certified supply chains, buyers receive materials that meet process needs, reducing downtime and enhancing product performance. With advances in green chemistry, some companies now explore alternatives with lower toxicity, but for applications needing strong performance and robust aromatic amine chemistry, 2-ethoxyaniline stays relevant. Its properties and structure drive innovation, underpinning discoveries in materials science and sustainable manufacturing.
