N,N,N′,N″,N″-Pentamethyldiethylenetriamine, commonly known as PMDTA, with its CAS number 3030-47-5, stands as a highly significant organic compound in various chemical syntheses. Offered by NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD., this versatile tertiary amine is valued for its unique properties as a tridentate ligand and an effective catalyst. As a colorless liquid, though sometimes appearing yellowish due to impurities, PMDTA possesses a characteristic fishy, ammoniacal odor.

Chemically, PMDTA is represented by the formula [(CH3)2NCH2CH2]2NCH3. Its synthesis is typically achieved from diethylenetriamine through the Eschweiler-Clarke reaction, involving formaldehyde and formic acid. Unlike diethylenetriamine, all three amine groups in PMDTA are tertiary, enabling it to form two five-membered chelate rings when coordinating with metal centers. Its physical characteristics include a melting point of approximately -20°C, a boiling point of around 198°C, and a density of 0.83 g/mL at 25°C, with a refractive index (nD) of 1.442.

One of the primary applications of PMDTA is in organolithium chemistry. It plays a crucial role in modifying the reactivity of organolithium compounds, which often exist as aggregates. The presence of PMDTA, acting as a strong Lewis base and a tridentate ligand, causes these aggregates to deaggregate, significantly enhancing their reactivity. This is particularly important for controlling reactions and achieving desired outcomes. Compared to other ditertiary amines like TMEDA, PMDTA binds more strongly to lithium centers due to its tridentate nature, often leading to the formation of monomeric complexes with organolithium compounds. Furthermore, PMDTA has been shown to influence the regiochemistry of metalation, providing chemists with enhanced control over synthetic pathways.

Beyond organolithium chemistry, PMDTA is widely utilized as a catalyst component in various polymerization reactions. It serves as a key element for Ni(II)-mediated alkyne carboxylation, demonstrating its utility in complex organic transformations. In polymer science, PMDTA acts as a versatile ligand or catalyst in the production of specialty polymers, block copolymers, and polymers with modified properties. A notable application includes its use as an organocatalyst in the ring-opening polymerization (ROP) of trimethylene carbonate, offering an advantage as it can be more easily removed after the reaction compared to traditional metal catalysts. It also finds application as an initiator to grow polystyrene chains, facilitating the preparation of polyolefin-polystyrene copolymers. When incorporated into the polymer structure, PMDTA can impart thermoresponsive behavior, allowing the final product to undergo reversible changes in solubility, conformation, or other physical properties in response to temperature fluctuations, making it invaluable for smart materials and responsive coatings, including in UV-curable coatings.

NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD. is a dedicated manufacturer and supplier of high-quality N,N,N′,N″,N″-Pentamethyldiethylenetriamine. We ensure that our product meets stringent purity and performance standards required for sophisticated chemical applications. For inquiries regarding the price of PMDTA or details on how to buy or purchase this essential chemical, interested parties are encouraged to reach out. Our commitment is to provide reliable chemical solutions that support innovation and progress across various industries.