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Methylene Dianiline

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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [2]

Overview

4,4′-Methylenedianiline (MDA) is a suspected carcinogen.[1] It is included in the “substances of very high concern” list of the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA).[2] The compound was involved in an accidental mass poisoning in the vicinity of Epping, Essex, United Kingdom during 1965 during which 84 individuals were poisoned through accidental contamination of flour used to make bread.[3]

Synthesis

In the industrial production, MDA is synthesised by reaction of formaldehyde and aniline in the presence of hydrochloric acid.[4]

Uses

MDA is used primarily for making polyurethane foams in which case it is first reacted with phosgene to create 4,4 ́-methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI) prior to polymerization with a polyol.[1][2] Lower quantities are used as hardeners in epoxy resins and adhesives, as well as in the production of high-performance polymers.[4]

References

  1. 1.0 1.1 ToxFAQs for 4,4′-Methylenedianiline, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
  2. 2.0 2.1 Background document for 4,4’-Diaminodiphenylmethane (MDA)
  3. The Epping jaundice outbreak: a 24 year follow up
  4. 4.0 4.1 Data on manufacture, import, export, uses and release of 4-4’ diaminodiphenylmethane as well as … [1]

cs:4,4′- Diaminodifenylmethan de:4,4′-Diaminodiphenylmethan fa:۴٬۴’-متیلن‌دی‌آنیلین nl:4,4′-methyleendianiline fi:4,4′-metyleenidianiliini

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