The Difference Between DMF & DMAC in Recovery Industry
DMF (N, n-dimethylformamide) and DMAC (N, n-dimethylacetamide) are common organic solvents that are widely used in the chemical, pharmaceutical, electronics and fiber industries. Their main differences are as follows:
- Chemical structure
DMF (N, n-dimethylformamide, Dimethylformamide)
Structural formula: HCON(CH₃)₂
Contains formyl group (-CHO) structure, belongs to formamide compounds.
DMAC (N, n-dimethylacetamide, Dimethylacetamide)
Structure: CH₃CON(CH₃)₂
Amido compounds contain an acetyl (-COCH₃) structure.
- Physical properties
Properties DMF DMAC
Molecular weight 73.09 87.12
Boiling point (°C) 153 165
Density (g/cm³, 20°C) 0.944 0.937
Dielectric constant (20°C) 36.7 37.8
Solubility (in water) Completely dissolved
- Solvent performance
DMF: strong solubility, can dissolve polar and non-polar substances, often used to dissolve polyamide, polyurethane, polyacrylonitrile and other polymer materials.
DMAC: The dissolution capacity is similar to DMF, but due to its larger molecular structure, it is slightly stronger for some polymer materials, such as polyvinylidene fluoride PVDF.
- Toxicity and safety
DMF: highly toxic, can be absorbed through the skin, has obvious toxicity to the liver, and is classified by the IARC (International Agency for Research on Cancer) as a Class 2A carcinogen (possibly carcinogenic to humans).
DMAC: Relatively less toxic, but still hepatotoxic and harmful to humans at high concentrations or prolonged exposure.
- Industrial applications
DMF: mainly used in pharmaceutical synthesis, pesticides, coatings, electronics industry, textile industry (such as wet spinning of polyacrylonitrile fiber).
DMAC: mainly used for dissolving polymers (such as aramid, polyurethane), synthetic medicine, solvent extraction and so on.
Step 6: Stability
DMF: easy to decompose under the action of acids or bases, to produce formic acid and dimethylamine, may occur at high temperatures autooxidation reaction.
DMAC: Chemically more stable, slightly better heat resistance than DMF.
conclusion
DMF and DMAC have some overlap in uses, but DMAC is more stable, relatively low toxicity, and suitable for some occasions with high safety requirements.
If environmental health concerns are concerned, DMAC is a safer choice, but DMF is still the more widely used solvent when solubility is considered.