2,4-Dinitroaniline

2,4-Dinitroaniline is an organic compound with a formula of. It is used as an intermediate in the manufacturing and production of pesticides, herbicides, pharmaceuticals, and dyes. Compared to aniline, the basicity of 2,4-dinitroaniline is even weaker.

Preparation and reactions

2,4-Dinitroaniline can be prepared by reaction of 1-chloro-2,4-dinitrobenzene with ammonia. It can be also prepared by the nitration of aniline.
2,4-Dinitroaniline can be reduced to 1,2-diamino-4-nitrobenzene and further reduced to 1,2,4-triaminobenzene.

Uses

It is used for the manufacture of certain azo dyes and disperse dyes, as well as in printing ink, toner, and the preparation of preservatives. The compound also finds applications as an intermediate in the synthesis of neutral dyes, sulfur dyes, and organic pigments.

Safety

2,4-Dinitroaniline is toxic, with a lethal dose of 285 mg/kg. It is also reported to penetrate through skin leading to acute dermal toxicity ratings. Unlike other nitroaromatics, it is not classified as an explosive.