2-Amino-2-methyl-1-propanol: Uses and Toxicity

2-Amino-2-methyl-1-propanol is a clear, light-colored liquid. It is insoluble in water and has a density close to that of water, with a flash point of 172°F.

Uses and Properties of 2-Amino-2-methyl-1-propanol (AMP)

2-Amino-2-methyl-1-propanol ((CH₃)₂C(NH₂)CH₂OH, AMP) is a clear, light-colored liquid. It is insoluble in water and has a density close to that of water, with a flash point of 172°F.

AMP is an organic compound containing both amine and alcohol functional groups. As a primary amine, it is a chemical base and can neutralize acids to form salts and water, releasing heat in the process. This exothermic reaction is largely independent of the amine’s base strength.

Chemical Compatibility: Amines like AMP may react with:

• Isocyanates

• Halogenated organics

• Peroxides

• Acidic phenols

• Epoxides

• Anhydrides and acid halides

Additionally, flammable hydrogen gas can be generated when AMP comes into contact with strong reducing agents such as hydrides.

Applications of 2-Amino-2-methyl-1-propanol

AMP has a wide range of industrial and scientific applications:

• Chemical Intermediate: Used in the synthesis of other chemicals and as a buffer solution.

• Cosmetics: Functions as a pH regulator or buffering agent in skincare and haircare formulations.

• CO₂ Capture: As a sterically hindered primary amine, AMP has been studied extensively for carbon dioxide absorption. Its advantages include:

• High absorption capacity

• Excellent degradation resistance

• Low regeneration energy
  AMP is often added as a regulatory reagent to improve the CO₂ capture performance of absorbents.

• Spectroscopic Studies: Used in ATR-FTIR investigations to study carbon monoxide absorption characteristics in heterocyclic diamines.

• Aminoalcohol Research: Structurally related to amino acids, AMP is studied for conformational analysis, helping understand the impact of steric effects, hyperconjugation, and Lewis-type interactions on isomerism and reactivity.

AMP’s unique amine-alcohol structure makes it a versatile compound in both industrial applications and scientific research, particularly in areas related to environmental chemistry, materials science, and biochemical studies.

Toxicity of 2-Amino-2-methyl-1-propanol

2-Amino-2-methyl-1-propanol (AMP) exhibits low acute toxicity. However, the undiluted substance can cause severe skin irritation and eye corrosion.

Sensitization: In studies on guinea pigs, AMP was found not to be sensitizing.

Target Organ Effects: Short-term or repeated oral exposure primarily affects the liver, with increased liver-specific serum enzyme activities and histopathological changes observed.

Gastrointestinal Effects: AMP can also cause damage and hemorrhage in the gastrointestinal mucosa upon ingestion.

Hydrochloride Form: The hydrochloride salt of AMP is considered less toxic than the free base.

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