Dibutyl amine (DBA) — properties & hazards overview
Boiling point
≈ 160 °C
Flash point
≈ 50–60 °C (low–moderate)
Odour threshold
Low (ppm → sub-ppm)
Water solubility
Moderate; high as salt
Flammability
Vapours ignite
Toxicity
Irritant / corrosive (basic)
Chronic risk
Sensitization/odor
Environmental
N-load/COD
| Property | Value / Note |
|---|---|
| Chemical identity | Secondary amine, (C₄H₉)₂NH; clear liquid with strong amine odour. |
| Molar mass | ≈ 129.2 g/mol |
| Reactivity | Strongly basic; rapid salt formation with mineral acids (e.g., sulfate/chloride). Incompatible with strong oxidizers; may attack some plastics/coatings. |
| Behaviour in gas streams | Gas-phase amine with moderate volatility; high capture when protonated in acidic liquor. Mist/aerosol risk if over-acidified or at high gas velocities. |
| Best analytical detection | FTIR (inline) — continuous, selective identification of amine functional groups (N–H, C–N) without reagents; ideal for process/leak monitoring and scrubber outlet control. |
*Indicative values; confirm exact limits and handling data via current SDS (“verify via SDS”).