2,6-Diethylaniline is used as a reagent in the synthesis of herbicides, for instance Butachlor; a pre-emergent chloroacetanalide herbicide commonly used for weed control in rice as well as cotton, maize, wheat and other crops.

Appearance and properties: colorless to reddish brown liquid

Density: 0.906 g/mL at 25 °C(lit.)

Boiling point: 243 °C(lit.)

Melting point: 3-4 °C

Flash point: 254 °F

Refractive index: n20/D 1.545(lit.)

Stability: Stable under normal temperatures and pressures.

Storage conditions: Store in a tightly closed container. Store in a cool, dry,  well-ventilated area away from incompatible substances. Do not expose to air. Store protected from light. Store under an  inert atmosphere.

Vapor pressure: 0.02 mm Hg (20 °C)

Production method

Preparation method: Aniline and ethylene were prepared by alkylation reaction under the action of catalyst. There are two kinds of production processes: continuous and intermittent. The main catalysts are triethylaluminum, diethyl aluminum chloride, aluminum trichloride plus aluminum powder and aluminum chips. Raw material consumption quota: aniline (≥99.6%)695kg/t, ethylene (≥99.9%)470kg/t, aluminum powder (≥99.7%)14.5kg/t, aluminum trichloride (≥99%)44kg/t, sodium hydroxide solution (42%)91kg/t, sulfuric acid (93%)60kg/t.

Use

2, 6-diethylaniline is an important pesticide, dye and pharmaceutical intermediate. The pesticide field is a key intermediate in the production of the herbicide butachlor and can also be used in other organic synthesis.