4-Nitroaniline
4-Nitroaniline, p-nitroaniline or 1-amino-4-nitrobenzene is an organic compound with the formula C6H6N2O2. It is an organic chemical compound, consisting of a phenyl group attached to an amino group which is para to a nitro group. The chemical structure of p-nitroaniline is shown at the right. This chemical is commonly used as an intermediate in the synthesis of dyes, antioxidants, pharmaceuticals and gasoline, in gum inhibitors, poultry medicines, and as a corrosion inhibitor.
Synthesis
Below is an example synthesis of p-nitroaniline from aniline. The key step in this reaction sequence is an electrophilic aromatic substitution to install the nitro group para to the amino group. After this reaction, a separation must be performed to remove 2-nitroaniline, which is also formed in a small amount during the reaction.
Applications
4-Nitroaniline is a starting material for the synthesis of Para Red, the first azo dye.
Toxicity
The compound is toxic by way of inhalation, ingestion, and absorption, and should be handled with care. Its LD50 in rates is 750 mg/kg when administered orally. p-Nitroaniline is particularly harmful to all aquatic organisms, and can cause long-term damage to the environment if released as a pollutant.
Source:wikipedia