Cis-2,6-Dimethylmorpholine stands out as a specialty chemical rooted in the morpholine family. It forms a six-membered ring featuring both nitrogen and oxygen, with methyl groups fixed at the 2 and 6 positions on the ring. This structure brings out unique steric and electronic properties compared to the trans isomer and common, unmethylated morpholine. Produced typically by catalyzed synthesis, this compound shows up in pure forms as colorless to pale yellow crystals, but based on conditions, it can also be encountered as flakes, powders, or even a liquid at higher temperatures. The presence of two methyl groups tightly wedges atoms, shaping both reactivity and solubility, and making it attractive in several industrial and research applications.
The formula for Cis-2,6-Dimethylmorpholine is C6H13NO. Its structure forms a cyclic ether where the two methyl substituents anchor to the carbon atoms adjacent to the nitrogen, ensuring a “cis” orientation. This compact, almost shielded architecture impacts how the molecule fits into chemical reactions, particularly where selectivity or steric effects matter. Its molar mass, an important tip for weighing and preparation, measures 115.18 g/mol — putting it on the lighter end compared with more elaborate organic molecules, but distinctly heavier than base morpholine by those added methyls.
Cis-2,6-Dimethylmorpholine presents itself most notably as a solid crystalline substance, often appearing as clear or slightly yellow-tinted crystals. Melting occurs around 64-67°C, showing stable form at room temperature. Volatility stays low, so loss to the atmosphere remains limited in standard handling. When dissolved, its solubility in water stays moderate, favored more by organic solvents such as ethanol, ether, and chloroform. The density tips at roughly 0.96 g/cm3 when solid, rising slightly in the melted state. It disperses well into solutions due to both polar and nonpolar interactions, a trait that offers flexibility for use in complex formulations or as a solvent substitute in laboratory workflows.
The way this chemical reaches consumers covers several forms. Solid, crystalline grades are common when purity must be certain or when precision matters in dosing by weight. For dissolution into other materials or solutions, powder or flakes give quick integration, while pearl forms enable easier pouring by reducing dust generation. Under the right pressure and temperature, it may present a liquid phase, but such use tends to remain rare outside of synthesis. Choosing the right delivery form can affect mixing times, control of reaction rates, and storage safety.
International shipping moves on standards, and the HS Code for Cis-2,6-Dimethylmorpholine usually falls under 2933.59, slotting this into heterocyclic compounds with nitrogen. This code streamlines customs checks and helps users follow documentation practices, avoiding costly delays. Key specifications that experienced users prioritize include purity (often >98%), moisture content (ideally <0.1%), and levels of individual isomeric or unidentified byproducts. Infrared spectrum and NMR analysis confirm structure, and customers who need rigorous certification should push for a recent certificate of analysis.
This molecule does not hide its chemical roots: handled inappropriately, it can cause harm. Inhalation, ingestion, or direct skin contact risks mild to moderate irritation, and given its morpholine backbone, toxicity must be taken seriously for both human health and the environment. The safety data sheet typically labels it as harmful or hazardous, so personal protective equipment including gloves, goggles, and proper ventilation become prerequisites. Spill control means absorbing with inert material and sweeping up with caution. Storage asks for a tightly sealed container, cool ambient temperatures, and distance from strong oxidizing agents. Waste must be neutralized and disposed of by chemical rules, sidestepping outright drains or landfill dumping to keep water systems and soil uncontaminated.
Starting from ethylene oxide or equivalent diols and methylating agents, chemical plants synthesize Cis-2,6-Dimethylmorpholine through multi-step reactions under controlled conditions. Tight control over isomerization and selectivity protects both yield and purity, ensuring the cis form outnumbers the trans. This chemical usually works as an intermediate for pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and specialty surfactants. In labs, its solid nature and stability let researchers design libraries of related molecules, while industrial operators value its solubility for rapid integration into liquids. From a practical perspective, the consistency in structure, melting point, and density drives repeatable processes, shrinking waste and boosting quality.
Precision means everything for blending or research. Density clocks in close to 0.96 g/cm3 for the solid state, which means that each liter of packed solid contains just under a kilogram of material. Solution preparation calls for measured dilution, as Cis-2,6-Dimethylmorpholine dissolves readily in most polar organics, but warming or stirring may help with high-concentration applications. Always measure by weight for accuracy, as flake and powder forms trap air pockets that skew volumetric measures. In industrial reactors, semiconductor, or pharmaceutical processes, knowing the exact mass/volume concentration keeps batch quality high.
Regulators take note of nitrogenous organics because of potential persistence and toxicity. As a hazardous chemical, suppliers and users must register its transport, supervise inventory, and document safe disposal. Environmental impact stays modest under controlled usage, but release into the wild runs risks: aquatic species absorb amines quickly, and bioaccumulation isn’t well understood for methylated morpholines. Responsible handlers join cleanup programs, fit plants with closed-loop systems, and educate staff on emergency procedures. After years in labs and factories, few compounds reward attention to detail like Cis-2,6-Dimethylmorpholine.
