Aniline: A small yet powerful chemical molecule, the core engine driving innovation in multiple industries

 

Molecular properties and technical advantages of aniline: Outstanding performance of multi-functional platform molecules

Aniline (C₆H₅NH₂, CAS 62-53-3), as the simplest primary aromatic amine, has a unique molecular structure that makes it an indispensable multifunctional platform molecule in the field of chemical engineering. In the aniline molecule, the amino group is directly connected to the benzene ring, forming a stable conjugated system. This structure endows it with excellent nucleophilicity and coordination ability, which is the basis for its wide application in multiple fields.

The latest technological breakthroughs have significantly enhanced the performance of aniline. Through the nano-coating technology , the oxidation induction period of aniline has been significantly extended from 48 hours to 600 hours, greatly enhancing the stability of the product. The compound application with ionic liquids increases the solubility of aniline in organic substances by 5 to 8 times, expanding its application range.

The innovation of green production technology is equally remarkable. The non-precious metal catalyst developed by sinochem group has enabled the conversion rate of nitrobenzene to exceed 99.9%, while reducing the reaction temperature from 200 ° C to 80 ° C, significantly lowering energy consumption. The bio-based aniline route developed by BASF in collaboration with DSM, which uses lignin-derived phenol to synthesize aniline through ammonolysis, reduces carbon emissions by 68% compared to traditional routes, representing the sustainable development direction of the industry.

Technical indicators	Traditional craftsmanship	Innovative technology	Performance improvement
Oxidation stability	48 hours	600 hours	1150%
Reaction temperature	200 ℃	80 ℃	Reduce by 60%
Carbon emissions	Benchmark	Reduced by 68%	Significant improvement
Solubility	Benchmark	Increase by 5 to 8 times	Significantly expand the application scope

The diversified value of cornerstone materials in the industrial chain

1.The "cornerstone" role of the polyurethane industry chain

Aniline is an irreplaceable raw material for the synthesis of MDI (diphenylmethane diisocyanate), and MDI is a key component of polyurethane foam plastics. This application accounts for over 84% of the total consumption of aniline and is its most significant application field.

2. The "Performance Engine" of Rubber Additives

In the rubber industry, aniline derivatives play a crucial role. The new aniline derivative  of Shengao Chemical has enabled the ozone aging resistance life of tires to exceed 150,000 kilometers, significantly enhancing the durability of the products. The aniline-based sulfenamide developed by Yanggu Huatai has extended the scorched time to 30 minutes, enhancing the safety of rubber processing by 200%.

3. "Precision Tools" for Electronic Chemicals

The application of aniline in the high-end electronics field is particularly remarkable. The flexible transparent electrode (PANI-Flex 2025) developed by Showa Denko of Japan has a square resistance of less than 10Ω/sq and a light transmittance of over 92%, and has been used in foldable screen mobile phones. Even more astonishingly, the aniline-based photogenic acid generator (PAG-AN25) developed by JSR Microelectronics can support 1nm process EUV lithography, reducing the line edge roughness (LER) to 0.8nm, providing the possibility for chip manufacturing to enter a new era.

In addition to the above three major application fields, aniline is also widely used in the dye, pharmaceutical, pesticide and other industries. There are over 300 important products produced from aniline. It is one of the most crucial intermediates in the dye industry and also a major raw material for pharmaceuticals, rubber accelerators and antioxidants.

Strategies for responding to industry challenges

• One: Product stability challenge

Aniline is prone to oxidation and discoloration under the influence of air and light. Its color will gradually deepen, changing from colorless or light yellow to brown

This feature has always been a difficult problem in the industry. Solution: The adoption of nano-coating technology and optimized packaging (light-proof and argon-filled storage) can effectively extend the product's stable period. The latest technology can extend the oxidation induction period from 48 hours to 600 hours, significantly enhancing the shelf life of products.

• Two: The price fluctuates sharply

Between 2024 and 2025, the spot price of aniline in Asia dropped from $1,650 per ton to $1,050 per ton, and then rebounded to $1,480 per ton, with a significant fluctuation range. Solution: Manage price fluctuation risks through futures hedging (aniline futures contract of Zhengzhou Commodity Exchange). At the same time, establish a regional supply chain layout to reduce reliance on a single market.

• Three: Pressure of regulatory compliance

The EU's REACH regulation has been upgraded. Starting from 2026, aniline will be classified as a substance of very high Concern (SVHC), and processing enterprises will need to pay an additional compliance cost of 120 euros per ton. Solution: Establish strategic partnerships with suppliers, obtain regulatory compliance support, and shift to green alternatives such as bio-based anilines.

• Four: Safety and Toxicity concerns

Aniline is somewhat toxic and can be absorbed through the respiratory tract, skin and digestive tract. Its intermediate metabolite, phenylhydroxylamine, has a strong ability to form methemoglobin, causing hemoglobin to lose its oxygen-carrying function. Solution: Strictly follow safety operation procedures, equip necessary protective devices, and enhance safety training for employees. In the production process, closed equipment and good ventilation are adopted to reduce the chances of contact.

Customer pain points	Specific manifestations	Innovative solutions
Product stability	It is prone to oxidation and discoloration, with a short shelf life	Nano coating technology, dedicated packaging
Price fluctuation	The annual fluctuation range exceeds 40%	Futures hedging, long-term contracts
Compliance with regulations	The EU REACH regulation has been upgraded	Bio-based alternatives, compliance consultation
Supply chain risk	Geopolitics affects transportation	Regionalized layout and multi-source supply
Safe use	Toxicity concerns	Protective equipment, safety training

Whether in large-scale industrial applications or in high-precision and cutting-edge technological fields, aniline, this classic chemical molecule, continues to demonstrate its powerful vitality. Choosing aniline is not merely about selecting a chemical raw material; it is also about choosing a proven innovative platform and a reliable partner that drives the progress of the industry.