Structure and uses of important Aliphatic amines

Ethanolamine

Structure:

• Ethanolamine, with the molecular formula C2H7NO (or CH₂CH₂NH₂OH), is a primary aliphatic amine. It comprises a hydroxyl group (-OH) and an amino group (-NH₂) attached to adjacent carbon atoms on the alkyl chain.
  

Ethanolamine

Uses:

1. Utilized in the production of detergents and surfactants for cleaning products.

2. Serves as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and textile chemicals.

3. Employed in the production of corrosion inhibitors and metalworking fluids.

4. Acts as a pH regulator and buffering agent in various industries, including cosmetics and personal care products.

Ethylenediamine

Structure:

• Ethylenediamine (C2H8N2), a diamine with the molecular formula H₂NCH₂CH₂NH₂, features two primary amino groups (-NH₂) on both ends of a two-carbon alkyl chain.
  

Ethylenediamine (C2H8N2)

Uses:

1. Acts as a chelating agent in producing ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), used to sequester metal ions in various industries.

2. Intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and dyes.

3. Utilized in producing epoxy resin curing agents, rubber processing additives, and fuel additives.

4. Serves as a corrosion inhibitor in the oil and gas industry.

Amphetamine

Structure:

• Amphetamine (C9H13N), a secondary aliphatic amine with the molecular formula C₆H₅CH₂CH(NHCH₃)₂, contains a phenyl group (C₆H₅) and a methylamino group (-NHCH₃) attached to the alkyl chain.  

Amphetamine (C9H13N)

1. Primarily used as a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant for treating attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), narcolepsy, and obesity.

2. Occasionally prescribed for treatment-resistant depression or as adjunct therapy for specific medical conditions.

3. Its use is strictly regulated due to potential for abuse and addiction, classified as a controlled substance in many countries.