by Discovery and Early Uses
It was first isolated in 1826 by Otto Unverdorben and Friedrich Runge from the distillation of indigo. They named the compound “aniline” after the indigo plant “Anil”, from which it was derived. Early experimental uses found it could be used as a dye to color various fabrics. One of the first commercial applications was using it black, created from aniline, to color jute bags and carpets in the late 1850s.
Development of Dyes and Plastics Industries
In the late 1850s, William Henry Perkin accidentally discovered the first synthetic dye, mauveine, while experimenting with it. This launch the aniline dye industry and led to the discovery of many other synthetic dyes. Aniline By the 1860s, it was being used commercially to produce red, blue, green and black dyes. Major developments in dye production advanced Germany to become the world’s leading dyestuffs manufacturer by the late 19th century.
In addition to dyes, it started being used as a precursor to make plastics in the early 20th century. The invention of bakelite in 1907 was a milestone that kickstarted the modern plastics industry. It continues to be widely used today in the production of numerous types of plastics, resins and fibers.
Modern Industrial Uses
Today, the three biggest industrial uses of it are in the production of methyldiphenyl diisocyanate (MDI), rubber processing chemicals, and nitrobenzene.
MDI is akey ingredient in polyurethane foams used for cushioning, insulation and sealants. Globally over 6 million tons of MDI are produced annually using it.
It is converted into rubber accelerators and antidegradants that improve the strength and longevity of tires and other rubber products. It is estimated that over 400,000 tons of aniline go towards rubber chemical production each year.
Nitrobenzene serves as a precursor to lubricating oils, fungicides, dyes, and synthetic rubber. It provides the benzene ring structure during nitrobenzene synthesis which is then further processed. Annual nitrobenzene output requiring it is approximately 1 million tons.
Other uses of aniline in amounts ranging 50,000 to 200,000 tons include epoxy and polycarbonate resins, pesticides, cold-cure urethane elastomers, and pharmaceutical/agrochemical intermediates. It continues finding new applications as chemical technologies advance.
Production Methods
Historically, it was obtained from the destructive distillation of indigo. Today, it is produced almost exclusively via two major synthesis routes:
1. Benzene nitration-reduction process: Benzene is nitrated to produce nitrobenzene, which is then hydrogenated to it. This makes up over 95% of global production.
2. Ammonolysis of chlorobenzene process: Chlorobenzene reacts with ammonia catalytically to yield it. This process is advantageous for integrated production sites since chlorobenzene and ammonia are intermediates already used elsewhere.
Both methods yield it as a colorless to light yellow liquid. Global production capacity exceeds 5 million tons annually. China is currently the world’s top producer at around 2 million tons per year. Major manufacturers include BASF, Bayer, Tianjiayi Chemical and Huntsman.
advances in aniline production played a pivotal role in establishing major global industries like dyes, plastics, chemicals and polymers. Its versatile properties continue supporting vital applications with annual demand over 5 million tons. Going forward, aniline derivatives are poised to take on new functions as innovative materials are developed.
*Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
About Author - Ravina Pandya
Ravina Pandya, Content Writer, has a strong foothold in the market research industry. She specializes in writing well-researched articles from different industries, including food and beverages, information and technology, healthcare, chemical and materials, etc. With an MBA in E-commerce, she has an expertise in SEO-optimized content that resonates with industry professionals. LinkedIn Profile
