4,4'-Oxydianiline (ODA): Comprehensive Material Profile

What is 4,4'-Oxydianiline?

4,4'-Oxydianiline stands out as a vital organic compound widely used as a monomer in the production of high-performance polymers. The material’s IUPAC name, 4,4'-Diaminodiphenyl ether, immediately points towards its central ether linkage and two amine groups. The molecular formula C12H12N2O demonstrates the balance of carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, and oxygen within its structure, forming a stable aromatic system favored by chemical engineers in advanced synthesis. Molecular weight registers at about 200.24 g/mol, critical info for anyone managing batch calculations or handling logistics in a chemical processing plant.

Structure and Specifications

The molecular structure shows two benzene rings joined by an oxygen atom, each bearing an amino group at the para positions. Crystallographers and polymer chemists value this arrangement for its rigidity and electron distribution, properties that directly affect thermal performance in end products. Its CAS number is 101-80-4, and the typical HS Code for international trade is 2921.42.00.00, clarifying duties and regulatory requirements for importers and exporters. In most forms, ODA appears as off-white or pale yellow flakes, solid chunks, or powder. Some industrial settings process it into pearls for ease of measurement and mixing. Unlike many organics, 4,4'-Oxydianiline resists conversion to liquid at room temperature. Water solubility remains low, while it shows better compatibility with organic solvents like ethanol and acetone.

Physical Properties and Material Forms

Density lies close to 1.27 g/cm³, allowing skilled handlers to calculate volumes quickly for reactors and storage. Melting point comes in high at around 133°C, which proves helpful in production settings that require stable feedstocks under heat. The solid form allows for long shelf life and stable handling, although airborne dust should be avoided. Some vendors offer solutions in select organic solvents upon request, which suit continuous-flow manufacturing but add transportation and storage complexity. The crystal habit of ODA confers enhanced packing and consistency in blending, crucial for anyone scaling operations from the lab bench to kiloliter reactors.

Raw Materials and Industrial Use

In my own work with polymer compounds, the selection of ODA as a raw material often centers on its dual role—flexible bridge and reactive amine. It's indispensable for synthesizing polyimides that resist both high temperatures and aggressive chemicals, which you see a lot in aerospace, electronics, and specialty coatings. Down on the production floor, operators notice how flakes and powders disperse directly in solvents for efficient mixing. This minimizes clumping, one less headache in quality control. Supply chain experts keep tabs on its purity, as even trace contaminants can derail the polymerization process, leading to costly reworks or scrap.

Safety, Hazardous Nature, and Handling Precautions

Anyone considering large-scale handling of 4,4'-Oxydianiline must keep safety front and center. This compound falls into the category of harmful substances—long-term skin contact or inhalation can trigger severe effects. Reliable safety data sheets list it as a suspected carcinogen; protective wear such as gloves, goggles, and adequate ventilation play a key role in keeping technicians safe. Over the years, I've seen companies implement closed-system processes and dust extraction setups just to keep worker exposure below regulatory limits. Environmental officers flag ODA for careful storage away from open drains or surface water, as spills could lead to significant fines and community concern.

Material Applications and Responsible Sourcing

Electronics manufacturers seek out ODA-based resins for flexible printed circuit boards—a use case where mechanical and thermal stability matter more than price per kilo. R&D chemists in my network mention its utility in adhesives and coatings that demand both toughness and high dielectric strength. Polyimide films derived from ODA find their way into microchip fabrication, satellites, and insulation systems where few other materials last as long under stress. For buyers sourcing from global suppliers, a focus on purity acts like insurance, dodging supply disruptions and costly recalls. Customs brokers look up the HS Code to meet compliance, as misclassification can snarl shipments and add weeks to delivery schedules.

Future Outlook and Market Considerations

As global industry pivots towards safer and more sustainable production methods, researchers debate alternative raw materials, but there’s no getting around ODA’s unique properties in high-performance polymers. Some countries tighten regulations every year, boosting demand for certifications and traceability across the supply chain. Investment in safe handling, robust analytics, and worker training pays off; in my experience, firms that approach material safety comprehensively avoid both health issues and expensive downtime. Specialty chemical distributors expand their offerings by tracking changes in regulatory burden and customer demand, sometimes offering advanced documentation or consultation to smooth the import process.

Conclusion and Responsible Use

The reality on the shop floor—ODA means business. It delivers proven results in advanced manufacturing while demanding real respect for safe storage and handling. Any process engineer or buyer who deals with ODA gains from solid technical info, firsthand experience, and clear safety policies. Reliable data, solid regulatory knowledge, and respect for its hazards will guide those working with this crucial raw material, helping to keep teams safe and products on specification.