Dichloramine

Dichloramine

Dichloramine is a chemical compound with the formula NHCl₂. It is one of the chloramines, which are derivatives of ammonia (NH₃) where one or more hydrogen atoms are replaced by chlorine atoms. Dichloramine is an important compound in the field of water treatment and disinfection.

Chemical Structure and Properties

Dichloramine is a yellow, volatile liquid at room temperature. It is less stable than monochloramine (NH₂Cl) and more stable than nitrogen trichloride (NCl₃). The compound is known for its pungent, bleach-like odor.

The molecular structure of dichloramine consists of a nitrogen atom bonded to two chlorine atoms and one hydrogen atom. The presence of chlorine atoms makes dichloramine a strong oxidizing agent.

Synthesis

Dichloramine can be synthesized by the reaction of ammonia with chlorine gas. The reaction is typically carried out in an aqueous solution:

NH₃ + 2 Cl₂ → NHCl₂ + 2 HCl

This reaction must be carefully controlled to prevent the formation of nitrogen trichloride, which is explosive.

Uses

Dichloramine is primarily used in water treatment processes. It is an effective disinfectant and is used to kill bacteria and other pathogens in drinking water and swimming pools. Dichloramine is also used in the production of hydrazine, a compound used as a rocket fuel.

Health and Safety

Dichloramine is a respiratory irritant and can cause irritation to the eyes and skin. It is important to handle dichloramine with care, using appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves and goggles.

In water treatment, the presence of dichloramine can lead to the formation of disinfection by-products, which may pose health risks. Therefore, the concentration of dichloramine in treated water is carefully monitored and controlled.

Environmental Impact

Dichloramine, like other chloramines, can react with organic matter in water to form chlorinated organic compounds. These compounds can be harmful to aquatic life and may contribute to the formation of trihalomethanes (THMs), which are regulated due to their potential health effects.

Also see

• Monochloramine
• Nitrogen trichloride
• Chlorine
• Water treatment
• Disinfection by-products