N-Methylmorpholine N-oxide
NMMO, NMO, 4-Methylmorpholine 4-oxide, 4-Methylmorpholine N-oxide.
- CAS
- 7529-22-8
- EC
- 231-391-8
- Sectors
- Textiles, Leather & Paper, Pharma & Healthcare
N-Methylmorpholine N-oxide (CAS 7529-22-8) is a cyclic amine oxide that appears as a clear colorless to yellow liquid, typically a 50% aqueous solution or high-purity monohydrate, and serves as the primary non-derivatizing solvent for cellulose in Lyocell fiber production and as a co-oxidant in pharmaceutical synthesis. Typically supplied as a 50% aqueous solution or high-purity monohydrate, it exhibits exceptional solvency power for difficult-to-dissolve polymers.
This chemical serves as the primary non-derivatizing solvent in the sustainable production of Lyocell fibers, allowing for the direct dissolution of cellulose. Its ability to process high-molecular-weight polysaccharides without chemical modification makes it a cornerstone of green textile chemistry.
In organic synthesis, NMMO functions as a mild co-oxidant for the regeneration of catalysts in the production of pharmaceutical intermediates. It is highly valued for its biodegradability and high recovery rates within closed-loop industrial manufacturing systems.
Typical Properties
| Molecular formula | C5H11NO2 |
|---|---|
| Molecular weight | 117.15 g/mol |
| Appearance | Clear colorless to yellow solution |
| Form | Liquid |
| Color | Clear colorless to yellow |
| Melting point | 120-160 °C |
| Boiling point | 118-119°C |
| Density | 1,14 g/cm 3 |
| Water solubility | Soluble in water, methanol, ethanol, acetone, ethers and dimethylsulfoxide. |
| Flash point | 118-119°C |
| pH | 9.00 ( in neat) |
| GHS signal word | Danger · Flammable, Oxidizing, Irritant / harmful, Health hazard |
| HS code | 29349990 |
| Grades available | Technical Grade |
Typical literature values for identification; lot-specific results are stated on the certificate of analysis (COA) and the safety data sheet (SDS) that accompany every delivery.
N-Methylmorpholine N-oxide
Applications
- Lyocell Fiber Production:Used as the primary direct solvent to dissolve wood pulp cellulose for spinning regenerated cellulosic fibers and films.
- Pharmaceutical Synthesis: Acts as a co-oxidant (often with TPAP or Osmium tetroxide) for the oxidation of alcohols to carbonyls in drug manufacturing.
- Industrial Solvent: utilized in the extraction and processing of varied natural polymers and high-performance engineering plastics.
Safety & Risks
This substance is classified as a Skin Irritant and causes serious Eye Irritation, necessitating strict adherence to safety protocols. Operators must wear chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles, and protective clothing. While stable under normal conditions, it is a strong oxidizer; avoid contact with reducing agents and protect from excessive heat to prevent thermal decomposition.
Packaging
• 25 kg Bags (for solid/crystalline form)
• 200 L Polyethylene Drums (for solution)
• 1000 L IBC Totes
• Bulk / ISO Tank